Chelsea FC has become the first top-flight club to take part in dedicated epilepsy first aid training delivered by national charity Epilepsy Action, setting a new standard for safety and inclusion in the Premier League.
Epilepsy Action carried out the landmark sessions at Stamford Bridge, equipping staff with the confidence and practical skills to recognise seizures and respond quickly and appropriately both on match days and behind the scenes.
Around one in every 100 people in the UK has epilepsy. On a sold-out matchday at the club’s ground, that means statistically more than 400 supporters in the stands could be living with the condition.
Every day, 79 people across the country are newly diagnosed, with epilepsy accounting for 137 hospital admissions daily, underlining just how common and unpredictable epilepsy can be.
Simon Privett, training and education lead at Epilepsy Action said: “Epilepsy is more common than many people realise and knowing what do to in an emergency can make all the difference.
“Chelsea’s proactive approach shows real leadership not just in sport but in championing a culture of understanding and safety that other clubs can follow.”
Amy Boyce, health and safety trainer at Chelsea FC said the training forms part of the club’s wider commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
She added: “This work grew out of our commitment to making sure everyone on site feels safe and supported. We wanted to put clear, practical processes in place so our teams know exactly how to respond if someone needs help, particularly on busy match days.”
“I shouldn’t have to choose”
For lifelong Chelsea supporter Tracy Brown, who lives with epilepsy, the training represents a meaningful shift in how safe and included fans with the condition can feel while watching the games.
She said: “Living with epilepsy means living with uncertainty. I don’t get warnings before my seizures and that makes everyday life – including match days – far more complex.
“Football remains a vital part of my life and identity. I shouldn’t have to choose between my health and the game I love.
“Having Chelsea FC staff trained in epilepsy first aid is genuinely transformative. It removes a huge amount of anxiety and allows me to focus on the football, atmosphere and the community.”
Invaluable practical training
As part of the wider programme supporters were also invited to attend a match day event (Wednesday 21 Jan) where information was shared about epilepsy, seizure first aid and the steps in place to support fans who may need help.
Research shows that 68% of people would feel afraid to witness a seizure highlighting the importance of awareness and training in busy public spaces.
Amy added: “Working with Epilepsy Action helped us shape practical training that’s now embedded across our teams and it’s been invaluable. It is something we would strongly recommend other teams consider as well.”
To find out more about Epilepsy Action’s epilepsy awareness training visit: Epilepsy training – Epilepsy Action
Epilepsy training
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