Epilepsy Policy

Conwy County Borough Council operates a Gym and Fitness Studios Epilepsy Policy in line with guidance from the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) and in consultation with epilepsy organisations. The key requirements of the policy are as follows:

Participation with Controlled Epilepsy

• Individuals who have been seizure-free for a minimum of one year may use Conwy County Borough Council gym and fitness studios without any special precautions.

Participation with Uncontrolled Epilepsy

• Individuals with uncontrolled epilepsy or parents of children with uncontrolled epilepsy should seek approval from their GP before participating in gym or fitness activities. This should consider:

• • Type, severity, and frequency of seizures.
  • Presence or absence of warning signs.
  • Known triggers such as stress, bright lights, noise, or intense physical exertion.

Notification and Risk Assessment

• Individuals with uncontrolled epilepsy, or their parent/guardian/carer, must inform Leisure Centre reception upon arrival.
• A Duty Officer will conduct a risk assessment in partnership with the individual, family, or carer to ensure safe and enjoyable participation.

Companions and Supervision

• Participation requires the accompaniment of a companion who is familiar with the individual’s epilepsy, can recognise seizures, and is able to act appropriately in the event of a seizure.
• The companion must continually observe the individual during the activity and notify staff immediately if a seizure occurs.

Health Considerations

• Activities should not proceed if the individual or their companion feels unwell.
• The Duty Officer may restrict certain activities or equipment use based on the outcomes of the risk assessment to ensure safety.

Programmed Sessions

• Organisers of programmed fitness sessions must inform the leisure centre if any participants have uncontrolled epilepsy to facilitate appropriate preparations and risk assessments.

This policy aims to promote the safe and inclusive participation of individuals with epilepsy in gym and fitness studio activities. For further information or queries, please contact a Duty Officer or a member of the Leisure Centre staff.