What jobs can you do if you have epilepsy?

This information applies to people in the UK only. If you live outside the UK, then more information about epilepsy and employment where you are will be available from your local epilepsy organisation.

The Disability Discrimination Act means that there are no jobs which are barred completely to you because you have epilepsy. The only exception to this is a career in the armed forces which, by law, place restrictions on people with a history of epilepsy.

There are a few jobs which do have restrictions for health and safety reasons, so you would need to meet certain criteria to do them. For instance you may need to have been seizure-free for a set period of time before applying. Examples of jobs with restrictions include working in the Merchant Navy or being a train driver.

For all other jobs, you would need to be assessed on an individual basis for your suitability to do the job. The person who carries out the assessment would consider any risks that the job may carry for you, and anyone you work with, because of your epilepsy. They would also identify ways to reduce these risks by making reasonable adjustments. Examples of this type of job include nurses and childminders.

If you would like more advice and information about a particular job or career, you can speak to the Disability Employment Adviser at your local Jobcentre Plus (details in your local Phone Book) or speak to an adviser on the Epilepsy Helpline, freephone 0808 800 5050; helpline@epilepsy.org.uk

Last updated 2 May 2007