Published Monday 18 November 2019 at 9:06
Blackburn with Darwen Council have been awarded the Epilepsy Action Employer award.
The Employer Award celebrates the Council’s efforts in creating an epilepsy friendly workplace to support those who live with the condition.
The award was presented on Friday, November 15 by British charity Epilepsy Action whose awards celebrate the UK’s epilepsy heroes.
Last month a group of Blackburn with Darwen council staff successfully launched their own epilepsy support group for staff. They also plan to create epilepsy training opportunities for staff in the future.
Denise Park, Chief Executive at Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:
I am delighted the Council is being recognised for its support and positive attitude for colleagues with epilepsy. It’s great to know we are a model of good practice and I am committed that the Council as an employer will continue to develop an epilepsy friendly workplace.
Ben Greenwood, Communications Manager, who has the condition, said:
My experience at the Council has been very positive especially as I developed it while working here. I truly believe few employers have taken the steps the Council has.
Sadly, people with epilepsy are discriminated in many workplaces but as this award shows the Council, as an employer, has made giant strides in fostering an epilepsy friendly workplace. There is always more every employer can do to break down barriers for people with the condition and raise awareness and understanding about epilepsy and its impact but the Council should be praised for the work it has done already and its proven track record of support.
Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action said:
We’re delighted to acknowledge Blackburn with Darwen Council’s excellent work by giving them an Epilepsy Action award. This award is a deserved tribute for their consistent support for Ben and other employees with epilepsy. They are leading the way in ensuring staff with long-term health conditions can thrive in a fair and caring environment.