Zach, a brilliant young campaigner, has been recognised with a Points of Light Award for his outstanding work in helping to make a new law. Dean Russell has worked closely with the inspirational Zach, his family, Nathan and the Epilepsy Society to ensure this crucial piece of law was passed.
Zach's journey as a campaigner began when he was just eight years old. He sadly was one of the first victims of malicious online trolls who targeted individuals with epilepsy with flashing images. Determined to tackle this bullying, Zach started out on a three year campaign alongside the Epilepsy Society, Dean, Suzanne Webb MP and others who helped to advocate for a new law. Zach’s efforts resulted in Zach’s Law being born. This is truly a ground breaking piece of legislation which aims to safeguard individuals with epilepsy from online harassment, incorporated into the Online Safety Act in October 2023.
Dean said, ‘I was delighted to arrange for Zach to receive his Points of Light Award from the Prime Minister, and for him and his family to visit Number 10. Zach is an inspiration to many and I wanted to thank him for being such a tremendously hard working and persistent campaigner. I enjoyed working with Zach, his family, The Epilepsy Society and Suzanne Webb MP. As MP’s we both pushed hard to ensure this Act came to pass. Seeing this become law was a very proud day for many, and will make such a difference to people living with epilepsy’.
Nicola Swanborough, Head of External Affairs at the Epilepsy Society said: “Zach’s Law has been an incredible example of teamwork including politicians, policy makers and, of course, the wonderful Zach Eagling. We are very grateful for the relentless support of MPs from across the House in making the world a safer place online for people with epilepsy. We would like to thank both Dean Russell and Suzanne Webb for their hard work and commitment in ensuring that Zach’s Law is now part of legislation in the Online Safety Act. This is a world first in epilepsy, and we hope that where we lead, others will follow.”
Zach Eagling: “Going to Westminster to watch PMQs, meet the Prime Minister and take photos outside Number 10 was a dream come true. It has been an amazing campaign, and I am grateful to Suzanne and Dean for the huge amount of support they've given. I can't believe I have a law named after me! I'm pleased it has passed and that cruel online bullies will be brought to justice."
Photo courtesy of Number 10
