Epilepsy Action has launched an innovative new film explaining how to manage epilepsy to people with moderate learning disabilities .(a)

‘Managing your epilepsy’ is available on DVD and video with an accompanying booklet and was launched at this month’s ‘Managing Long Term Conditions 2006’ conference in London.

A significant number of people with learning disabilities have epilepsy, yet there is a severe lack of accessible information about the condition.  They are also more likely to have greater health needs than the majority of the population, but are less likely to seek help and receive treatment.

Epilepsy Action commissioned LBV Television to produce the stimulating film, presented by Dr Chris Steele, GP and resident doctor on ITV’s ‘This Morning’, and aimed at people with moderate learning disabilities, their families and carers.

The film uses actors from the ‘Mind the Gap’ theatre group who have learning disabilities themselves.  Featuring a series of short dramatised scenes to illustrate some of the daily issues faced by people with learning disabilities who have epilepsy, it helps viewers to understand the problems presented and encourages them to manage their own epilepsy. 

A variety of locations are used to introduce the audience to the different environments and health professionals they may meet.  The information is explained in clear and concise terms, and broken down into individual modules to allow the viewer to work at their own pace.  An interactive quiz is included at the end, reinforcing the key messages and testing the user’s understanding. 

To request your copy of ‘Managing your epilepsy’ or any of Epilepsy Action’s other resources, please contact Epilepsy Action on Freephone 0808 800 5050.