Epilepsy is a common disorder resulting from a sudden excessive discharge of electricity from brain cells. The reason for the discharge is an altered chemical state within the brain. This sudden discharge may result in loss of consciousness, changes in behaviour or involuntary movements (a seizure). Anyone can have a seizure, but epilepsy is a tendency to have recurrent seizures (also known as fits). The seizure may take many forms, differing from one person to another, and usually dependent on which part of the brain the discharge of electricity originates.

Epilepsy is sometimes called a hidden disability, because it is not physically obvious on a continual basis. It is not a mental illness or psychiatric disorder, nor is it infectious. The majority of people with epilepsy can control their condition through medication. Epilepsy is estimated to affect at least 1 in 200 of the population. It can affect anyone, at any age, but most commonly develops before the age of 20. The most known type of seizure is a major seizure which is characterised by sudden falling, jerking of limbs and unconsciousness. The image of such a seizure can give rise to negative reactions. Fear of injury frequently leads to unnecessary restrictions on people with epilepsy in the workplace. Only a minority of people with epilepsy will have a feeling (an aura) that they are going to have a seizure and be able move to a safe place. Most people with epilepsy have no such warning. Knowledge of epileptic seizures, realistic assessment of their potential danger and appropriate first aid methods can help trainers alleviate their own fears about Epilepsy.

Among the services Brainwave provides are information, education, advice and support, as well as pre-employment training programmes for people with epilepsy. It also has regional contacts at the following locations: