People with epilepsy are worried if they have a seizure in public that people will be reluctant to help because of social distancing, according to the Epilepsy Society.
With the pandemic continuing, living with a hidden disability has become even more challenging as people are asked to stay safe by keeping 2m apart.
For those with underlying conditions which mean they may need aid, this is a growing concern.
With that in mind, UK charity the Epilepsy Society has joined forces with Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to raise awareness of how you can provide first aid to someone having a seizure, safely.
This International Epilepsy Day (February 8, 2021) they are launching a campaign to increase awareness and understanding of different seizure types and what people can do to help if they see someone having a seizure.
Clare Pelham, Chief Executive at the Epilepsy Society, said: "The key message that we want to get across is that it is actually very easy to support someone during a seizure, without putting yourself at risk.
"If you see someone having a seizure where they fall shaking to the ground, then follow our three simple steps, the three Cs: stay Calm, Cushion their head, Call 999," she added.
"If it is safe to do so and will not put you at risk, remove the person’s mask as this will help with their breathing.
"Of course not all seizures are convulsive. A person may appear to zone out and be confused. But the message is still very simple: stay with them, talk gently, guide them away from danger. We are really thrilled to be partnering with the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower to share this important information."
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower are launching an epilepsy-specific Sunflower card with key messaging around seizure first aid so the wearer can discreetly highlight their hidden disability and the type of support that they may need.
Paul White, Chief Executive at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower said: "We are incredibly excited to work with the Epilepsy Society to bring awareness of this hidden disability to the fore. We have a weeks’ worth of informative activity to share with the public, including types of seizures, and importantly, how to offer first aid.
"It also gives us an opportunity to explain how face masks can trigger a seizure for some people. International Epilepsy Day is the perfect platform for our key message, which is to always demonstrate kindness and understanding."
To find out more visit epilepsysociety.org.uk or to order an epilepsy card visit hiddendisabilitiesstore.com/ or follow them on Twitter @EpilepsySociety @IntEpilepsyDay @sunflwrlanyards.
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