PLS partnering for better health in the Pilbara

(Image source: PLS) Seizures are one of the leading causes of avoidable hospital visits in the Pilbara, and access to support and education can make a lasting difference for individuals and families managing the condition.
(Image source: PLS) Seizures are one of the leading causes of avoidable hospital visits in the Pilbara, and access to support and education can make a lasting difference for individuals and families managing the condition.

With over 800 people affected by epilepsy in the Pilbara region of WA, PLS has invested to help extend Epilepsy Action Australia’s ‘Equip’ program to where it is needed most.

In 2024, PLS awarded a community grant to Epilepsy Action Australia (EAA) to help improve access to epilepsy education, resources and support services in the Pilbara region.

With support from the company’s community grants program, Epilepsy Action Australia rolled out the Equip program across the region, reaching more than 40 community members and included:

  • One-on-one support for seven local families including seizure management planning, safety advice and home environment recommendations
  • Delivery of four editions of the e360 newsletter to Pilbara residents
  • Epilepsy training for 25 people, covering first aid and emergency medication
  • Tailored support for Baler Primary School, along with fact sheets and awareness materials distributed across the region.

For one Port Hedland family, the program provided critical support at a challenging time. After their son Jake* began experiencing seizures, they faced months of medical appointments, uncertainty around his diagnosis and long trips to Perth for specialist care.

Living in a regional area compounded the stress. However, with the support of Epilepsy Action Australia’s Equip program, Jake’s family received clear information, strategies to manage seizure triggers and help arranging a second neurology opinion.

This support was a lifeline for the family, helping them navigate the diagnosis and ongoing care.

Epilepsy Action Australia grants manager Jocelyn Geary comments on Jake’s story.

“Jake’s story highlights the isolation many regional families feel and reinforces the importance of expanding access to tailored, face-to-face epilepsy education and support,” she said.

“Thanks to PLS, we were able to offer practical assistance and a pathway forward for families like Jake’s.”

PLS chief sustainability officer Sandra McInnes says the Equip program is a great example of how small, targeted investments can deliver real outcomes in community health and wellbeing.

“By supporting organisations like Epilepsy Action Australia, we’re helping build confidence, capacity and connection in our communities,” she said.

 

* For privacy, the individual has been referred to as ‘Jake’ throughout this article.

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