Information and Resources
The National Epilepsy Support Service operates Monday to Saturday between 9.00am and 7.00pm. The NESS is staffed by workers with expertise in how epilepsy affects health, well-being and daily living issues incorporating person-centred, self-management strategies.
We do our best to be responsive to all referrals, although waiting periods may apply in busy periods. Please indicate the urgency on referrals, as referrals can be triaged depending on need.
The Epilepsy Foundation is able to arrange interpreting services for people from non-English speaking backgrounds.
Support Services
Epilepsy Support Workers are available to assist people living with epilepsy and their families and support networks. Epilepsy Support Workers can provide:
- advice and information about epilepsy
- advice about risk management and living well with epilepsy
- individualised support for people living with epilepsy who require assistance with accessing supports and community resources
- development of tailored Epilepsy Management Plans.
People are able to self-refer to our services. We also welcome confidential referrals from health professionals.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Support
The Epilepsy Foundation is a registered NDIS provider. We provide services relating to the development of epilepsy management plans and epilepsy training. We do not provide support coordination services.
Supports include:
- information about the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
- assistance in deciding what epilepsy related goals should be included in an NDIS plan
- development of Epilepsy Management Plans
- education and training for families and support organisations.
Visit our NDIS page for more information.
Education and Training
The Epilepsy Foundation offers evidence-based general and person-centred epilepsy education and training programs designed for families, schools, communities and the workplace. Our training programs increase awareness and understanding of epilepsy in the community.
Past participants have told us that they feel more confident in recognising seizure activity and providing person-specific support after completing our training programs.
People living with epilepsy experience better outcomes through improved epilepsy knowledge, epilepsy management plan development, seizure first aid response and training in emergency medication administration.
Peer support
A number of peer support groups are run throughout the year for families, young people and adults living with epilepsy. Our Facebook page provides opportunities for people living with epilepsy and their families to connect with others and share their stories.