To address these issues for PwE, the project had two specific objectives: 1) to raise awareness of epilepsy among students and entrepreneurs in order to combat superstition, stigma and prejudice about PwE and to ensure a safe and comfortable working environment; 2) to improve their professional skills and awareness of self-assessment of individual medical risk in order to focus their job search on the most appropriate choice. A fundamental research analisis was made to better define at national level what and how do organisations can develop and implement strategies, policies, practices and initiatives to make their workplaces inclusive for PwE. Also was identifies how do organizations deal with the phenomenon of inclusion of PwE and als the degree level of social inclusion approaches of organizations perceived by PwE using technology. An Operational Framework and Learning Methodology Report was implemented according to two specific learning pathways, one for the following target groups: 1) PwE 2) HEI’s staff and end-users: professors, university staff, placement officers, students, entrepreneurs/managers attending MBA/Executive courses, people employed in organizations, recruiters, HR experts and recruitment agencies.
The EpilepsyPower project aimed to improve the inclusion of people with epilepsy (PwE) in the work system by raising awareness among university students and organisations supporting PwE in the employment process. A main objective was to spread a culture and practice of implementing inclusion systems for PwE, based on increasing knowledge and reducing the stigma that affects PwE. PwE have higher rates of unemployment and underemployment. In addition, PwE often have greater difficulties in keeping their jobs. Half of people with epilepsy do not disclose their condition to potential employers when applying for a job. Many employers refuse to hire people with epilepsy, mistakenly believing that they are more prone to accidents and absenteeism. Almost half of people with epilepsy (PwE) report feeling stigmatised and marginalised. Work and social exclusion are the main determinants of reduced quality of life and mood disorders in people with epilepsy. Employment restrictions imposed on PWEs are in most cases unfair and based on prejudice and stereotypes. Counseling desks (mentoring programs and tutoring in HEI organizations) and training programs as the 14 EpilepsyPower learning modules are fundamental for the the overall workforce.