A new survey has been launched by the Government as art of a drive to make Ireland’s nightlife more inclusive for people with long-term health conditions and disabilities.
The survey has been developed by the Department of Culture as part of the continuing work of the Night-Time Economy Taskforce and the survey is aiming to examine the challenges of patrons with long-term health conditions and disabilities when it comes to accessing the night-time economy. This can include concert venues, pubs, nightclubs and restaurants.
Epilepsy Ireland have submitted an organisational response to the survey based on our experience of supporting people with epilepsy. However, we feel it is equally important that people with epilepsy also provide direct feedback on their experiences to the survey.
We know how challenges can sometimes exist for people with epilepsy in accessing nightlife. For example, focal impaired seizures can often be overlooked by members of the public or venue staff as a person being drunk. In addition, for those living with photosensitive epilepsy attending gigs or concerts, sometimes there is no warning given of potential photosensitive content until it is too late.
These are just two brief examples of how nightlife can sometimes be inaccessible to people with epilepsy which is why we feel it is important that people with epilepsy provide feedback to this survey. Speaking at the launch of the survey, Minister Catherine Martin said,
The Night-Time Economy is where we meet friends, enjoy what our cities and towns have to offer and where we create and express ourselves. However, if we want our nightlife to be truly inclusive and diverse, we need to first understand the lived experiences that people with disabilities face when performing or socialising at night. I want to encourage people to participate in this survey so we can begin to understand the type of interventions needed to ensure we make nightlife accessible for all. I am looking forward to seeing the report from this survey and the set of actions needed to improve our nightlife for everyone.
To take the survey, click the button below.
We look forward to seeing the results of the survey and learning more about this important piece of work being undertaken by the Department. In the meantime, should you need any further information or support regarding your or your loved ones epilepsy, please do not hesitate to get in contact with your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the ‘Our Local Services’ section of our website.