Michael and Terry Hopley, directors of Hopley’s S&H Ltd in Sheffield, have been honoured with an Epilepsy Action Gold Award for Employment for helping to improve the lives of people with epilepsy.
Epilepsy Action is running the Gold Award for Employment scheme to mark this year’s National Epilepsy Week (May 20-26). The theme for National Epilepsy Week is employment. By running the award, the charity is recognising best practice and honouring employers who show understanding and help people with epilepsy to overcome difficulties in the workplace.
Michael and Terry were nominated by Susan Bennett, the wife of one their employees. Alan Bennett has epilepsy and started working at Hopley’s S&H Ltd three years ago. Susan nominated Michael and Terry because she feels that the support and encouragement Alan has received from his employers has been fantastic.
Susan comments: “Alan’s condition meant that he was unable to work for a number of years, which really knocked his confidence and self-esteem. When Michael Hopley advertised for an assistant transport manager, Alan thought he had nothing to lose by applying as he had worked in a similar post before his illness worsened. He was honest at the interview about his condition. Michael and Terry admitted they knew nothing about epilepsy but agreed to give Alan a try! I felt that the company in general, and its directors in particular, deserve an award for the way they have accepted Alan’s condition and allowed him to earn a living like everyone else.”
Alan, assistant transport manager at Hopley’s S&H Ltd, says: “From day one, Michael and Terry have made adjustments in the workplace to make things easier for me. The staff are not fazed in any way if I have a seizure; they respond in an appropriate and caring manner. I see the nomination as a way for my family to thank them for everything they have done for me.”
Michael and Terry were presented with the Epilepsy Action Gold Award for Employment today by Duncan Froggatt, chair of Epilepsy Action’s Sheffield Branch, at a special event held at the company’s headquarters in Sheffield to mark the occasion.
Michael says: “We were thrilled to be nominated for this award and are very proud to accept it today. Alan is a very able person and with just a few adjustments we have been able to ensure he can continue to fulfil his potential and make a real contribution to the company.”