ONE Bromsgrove family is more than aware of the potential risks of epilepsy, as their daughter has lived with the condition for most of her life.

But, according to a survey, two-thirds of people with epilepsy have never been told of the risks of the condition and more than half had never discussed the side effects of their medication with their GP.

During Epilepsy Week, the National Society for Epilepsy is trying to raise awareness of the condition, which affects more than 300,000 people in the UK.

Twenty-eight-year-old Georgina Medcalf, who lives off Milton Road, Catshill, has uncontrolled epilepsy as well as severe learning difficulties.

She has tried many different types of medication but none seem to control her condition, although her family is aware of the risks and keeps in constant contact with experts.

The registered charity now wants to make sure all people with epilepsy in Bromsgrove are aware of the medical support they should be getting.

Mum Janet said: "We are very lucky because Georgina receives excellent care from her neurologist. But I think it is so important for people with epilepsy to find out everything they can about the condition."

She added: "Information empowers the patient and allows them to make the right decisions regarding their healthcare."

To help townsfolk get the best from their medical care some top tips have been posted on the charity's website.

Visit www.epilepsynse.org.uk or phone 01494 601400 for more information.