Information about epilepsy

Epilepsy in the UK – Your Starting Point

Every day across the UK, more than 600,000 people live with epilepsy—around one in every hundred of us. Because seizures look different for everyone, the first step toward feeling confident and in control is reliable information that speaks to your own situation. 

This introductory page brings together the essentials, then signposts you to detailed guides written by our clinical and youth-work teams. Whether you have just received a diagnosis, are supporting a child or friend, or simply want to understand epilepsy UK-wide, you’re in the right place.

What you’ll find here

  • A clear definition of epilepsy and why it happens
  • Practical next steps after a first seizure

Direct links to in-depth resources on symptoms, diagnosis, treatments and day-to-day living

Quick stat: Children and young people make up more than 100,000 of all people with epilepsy in Britain, which is why our charity focuses on tailored support for under-25s and their families.

Whether you’ve just been diagnosed, support someone with epilepsy, or simply want to learn more, this page is your launch-pad. Follow the links below for in-depth guides on:

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Understanding epilepsy

Discover key facts about epilepsy, including what it is, who it affects, misdiagnosis rates, treatment gaps, and epilepsy-related deaths in the UK.

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Causes of epilepsy

Learn about the causes of epilepsy, including genetic, metabolic, unknown origins, and epilepsy in infants, from Young Epilepsy.

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Epilepsy syndromes

Learn about common childhood and rare infancy epilepsy syndromes in this informative guide from Young Epilepsy.

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Epileptic seizures

Understand epileptic seizures, their types, causes, and management. Find resources and support for living with epilepsy.

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Diagnosing epilepsy

Find out how epilepsy is diagnosed, what to expect at your first appointment, and how to get the right support for children and young people.

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Treatments for epilepsy

Explore various epilepsy treatments, including medication, surgery, and dietary options. Find resources and support for managing epilepsy effectively.

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Common co-occurring conditions

Explore common co-occurring conditions like autism, ADHD and dyspraxia in children with epilepsy, and how to recognise and support them early.

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Useful templates & tools

Access essential questionnaires and forms for parents and carers, and professionals, who care for children and young people with epilepsy.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions we receive

Find here

Last updated January 2025.

We’re currently reviewing this information. It will be reviewed by January 2026.