Research

Epilepsy Action actively encourages research into the social and medical (non-laboratory) aspects of epilepsy, providing this research falls within the organisation's aims and objectives, will contribute to our achievements and is intended for the ultimate benefit of people with epilepsy.

The direction of Epilepsy Action's research activities reflects the views of Members of Council of Management and staff at Epilepsy Action. However, we welcome your views about the research we carry out or fund, so please don't hesitate the contact us.

Epilepsy Action's research into education includes two recent surveys. One is a survey of parents with children with epilepsy, asking about their experience of education. The second is a survey of schools, assessing the level of awareness of epilepsy and its effects within the education sector.

We are currently funding an external research project 'Understanding of epilepsy by children with, or without, epilepsy' by Professor Ann Lewis of University of Birmingham:

To date, there has been little systematic evidence concerning the views of children with epilepsy, and their classmates, about their condition. Schoolmates’ understanding about epilepsy is important; these children are a vital source of potential support, advocacy and friendship. This project will explore the understanding of children and young people, in mainstream schools, of the nature, causes and long term effects of epilepsy. The information gathered will be used to produce guidelines concerning the most effective ways for teachers and other professionals to integrate children with epilepsy in an inclusive school.

Professor Ann Lewis is Professor of Special Education and Educational Psychology at University of Birmingham. She has a longstanding concern (both research and professionally-oriented) with exploring the views of children with disabilities, particularly in relation to the way they see educational provision. She is an experienced researcher and has published widely.

You can read more about Epilepsy Action's research activities on our main research pages.