Dyslexia Awareness Week runs from 2nd to 8th October 2023. It is a time for celebrating individuals with dyslexia from all backgrounds and walks of life. We will enjoy learning about individual journeys with dyslexia and discovering the diversity of experience in the community. Having dyslexia can bring its challenges but it also shapes experience and perspective and makes you Uniquely You which is the theme for this year’s Dyslexia Awareness Week.
What is Dyslexia?
1 in 10 people have Dyslexia.
Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling.
Dyslexia is not linked to intelligence or poor education, it occurs regardless of gender, age, ability, or ethnicity and in all walks of life. In adults, challenges with reading, writing, and spelling may not be visible,
as most will have developed good coping strategies. But tasks that require these skills, will require more time and effort than might be expected, and the impact this has on an individual can often go unseen.
Challenges with literacy can impact upon an individual’s confidence and self-esteem, and they try to avoid these tasks wherever possible.
British Dyslexia Association
Dyslexia doesn’t discriminate, occurring across all ethnicities and in people from all social groups. A vast number of individuals are undiagnosed and do not receive adequate support. As a result, they face daily barriers: in education, in the workplace and in life. They may be excluded from activities, shamed for their differences or simply disregarded.
The British Dyslexia Association advocate for change in three ways:
- They cultivate and maintain expertise in the field. They set the standard for professional training, work closely with researchers to enable continued learning and development in the sector. They provide expert information and resources about dyslexia.
- They engage widely with all stakeholders. They run a free helpline and regularly deliver events and webinars for groups or organisations to raise awareness and disseminate best practice. They liaise regularly with their members and work closely with their network of Local Dyslexia Associations who provide local knowledge and assistance. They collaborate with other organisations working in the sector to strengthen their approach.
- They empower people living with dyslexia. They support individuals seeking screening or assessment and help them to understand their statutory rights. They work with schools, employers and other organisations to encourage inclusive practice. They work with policymakers both locally and nationally to challenge the current status quo and call for changes that unlock the potential of the community.
Find out more about the British Dyslexia Association.
