National charity Epilepsy Action has rolled out its epilepsy training to one of the Uks biggest hospitality companies. BaxterStorey recently introduced epilepsy awareness training for managers and now have over 24 Epilepsy Champions in their workplace, with hopes to increase this by at least a dozen in early 2026. The company are renowned for their inclusivity, and hope the training encourages more of their employees to open up about their epilepsy so they can receive any support they need.
The specialist training provided by Epilepsy Action takes trainees through standard epilepsy training, including first-aid, but also dives deeper, exploring how epilepsy affects daily life and life in the workplace. The Epilepsy Champions receive unique training that enables them to support their colleagues with epilepsy.
Jo Gater is a Chef Manager at BaxterStorey and has lived with epilepsy since early childhood. She now relies on medication to control her seizures, but that doesn’t mean life has been straight forward. Jo says she’s experienced the stigma around epilepsy and has even been turned away from jobs because of it.
“I’ve been in workplaces where health and safety support wasn’t properly in place. I challenged it, because anything can happen to anyone, epilepsy or not. People aren’t always born with it, and workplaces need to be prepared.
“Working in hospitality, you get a high-pressure, fast-paced environment. I take pride in keeping up with the pace. I can’t recall ever being off sick, and I do my best to make appointments outside of work. Things don’t need to be adjusted for me; I just need understanding and a safe environment”.
Following BaxterStorey introducing Epilepsy Champions, Jo said “It makes a huge difference to know you can talk openly, without judgement. Epilepsy can be overwhelming, but when your company recognises that and offers support, it helps you keep going”.
When asked what advice she would give to someone with epilepsy considering a career in hospitality, Jo didn’t hesitate: “Don’t let it hold you back. I’ve always said I control it; it doesn’t control me”.
Simon Privett, Learning & Training Lead at Epilepsy Action said: “At Epilepsy Action, we believe that people with epilepsy should be supported to live a life without limits — and that includes in the workplace. With employment rates for people with epilepsy still worryingly low, it’s inspiring to see BaxterStorey taking such a proactive and meaningful approach. From the moment they reached out to us, it was clear that BaxterStorey was committed to developing a robust training programme to upskill their teams, empower their managers, and establish Epilepsy Champions to provide dedicated support for colleagues with epilepsy.
“Being in the workplace can be extremely daunting for people with epilepsy, especially if adequate adjustments and training are not in place. An Epilepsy Action survey (2023) revealed that 60% of respondents with epilepsy had faced some form of discrimination or unfair treatment in the workplace, and 42% of employers admitted they would be inclined not to hire someone with epilepsy because of the potential challenges. These statistics are shocking, but unfortunately we do hear many anecdotal stories from our supporters highlighting that this is still a big concern.
“This partnership is a strong example of how organisations can lead the way in creating inclusive workplaces where people with epilepsy are supported to thrive.”
Lyndsey Oliver, Head of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion said: “We’re proud to be leading the way for the hospitality industry with our partnership with Epilepsy Action. Our people are the heart of our business, and creating an environment where everyone feels seen and supported is non-negotiable. Our 24 Epilepsy Champions will play a vital role in helping us embed inclusivity into our everyday culture.”
Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and around 80 are diagnosed every day. Epilepsy Action is committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, by campaigning for better services and raising awareness of the condition. The charity provides a national network of support groups, with expert advice available on its freephone helpline 0808 800 5050 and online at www.epilepsy.org.uk. Employers can find more details about Epilepsy Action’s training via Epilepsy training – Epilepsy Action.
Image BaxterStorey
