Not all people with epilepsy will need time off for medical appointments. However, people with active seizures will likely need to attend regular neurology and other appointments. If you need time off for medical appointments, make sure you know what policy your organisation has in place, and if you have any contractual obligations.
Am I entitled to paid time off for medical appointments?
You can check your contract of employment as your employer should have included their arrangements for time off for medical appointments. You could also speak to your manager or HR.
Even though there is no legal requirement to give paid time off for medical appointments, some employers do offer this.
Some employers will ask you to try and schedule appointments outside of your normal working hours, where possible. They may also offer for you to take the time off as holiday leave or time off in lieu, made up at a later date.
What are my legal rights?
As a person with epilepsy, you are protected by the Equality Act 2010. This means that your employer has a legal obligation to allow reasonable time off work for medical appointments.
If you need any support in the workplace, get in touch with us today.
Leona Phillips has been working within the voluntary sector for many years, spending the past couple of years at Epilepsy Action. Leona specialises in epilepsy, having both professional and lived experience with the condition, and is now supporting people with epilepsy through the Access to Work scheme.
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