Epilepsy High on the Agenda in Parliament Today

Carla Lockhart MP • May 20, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has today placed a spotlight on the urgent challenges faced by those living with epilepsy during a visit to the Epilepsy Society’s exhibition in Westminster.

The exhibition brought together MPs, clinicians, campaigners and families to highlight the pressing need for increased investment in epilepsy research, improved care, and consistent access to life-saving medication. With epilepsy affecting 1 in every 100 people in the UK, the issue is deeply relevant to every constituency, including Upper Bann.


Commenting after the exhibition, Carla Lockhart MP said:


“Epilepsy affects around 1,000 people in Upper Bann alone, and many more when you include the loved ones who walk this journey alongside them. Today’s exhibition was a powerful reminder of just how urgent the need is for better support, better services, and better outcomes.”


“As I walked through the exhibition, one family from our own community was very much on my heart. Earlier this year, we lost a bright, beautiful young man, Steven Carson, to epilepsy. His family, Jock, Maedea and the entire circle of friends and loved ones, continue to carry an unimaginable grief. Their courage, their love for Steven, and their determination to raise awareness certainly inspires me to do more.”


“Whether it’s tackling dangerous medication shortages or pressing for greater research funding, I will continue to raise these issues in Parliament. Epilepsy must not be overlooked. Lives depend on it.”


The Epilepsy Society’s campaign calls on MPs to support a more strategic and well-resourced approach to tackling epilepsy in the UK, and to ensure that no family is left to suffer in silence.


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