Dyslexia awareness

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that affects an individual’s ability to process information accurately, primarily affecting the skills involved in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy. People with dyslexia see and hear normally, but absorb information differently, which may cause some difficultly when remembering what they have heard and seen.

The degree to which dyslexia affects an individual can vary greatly, with each person experiencing a unique combination of strengths and challenges. It is estimated that up to 10% of the population may have dyslexia, with males and females equally affected. Although dyslexia is a life-long condition, it should not be viewed as a barrier to personal success or achievement. Importantly, dyslexia is not linked to intelligence, and many individuals with dyslexia demonstrate exceptional creativity, problem-solving abilities, and other talents.

Recognising dyslexia

Some characteristics may include:

Written work which may contain spelling errors or handwriting that’s difficult to read.
Reading difficulties and challenges following written instructions.
Organisation and time management challenges.
Memory difficulties which may lead to forgetfulness.
Inaccuracy with numbers.
Slower task completion, needing more time than peers to process or produce written work.
Emotional impact, such as low self-esteem, stress or anxiety.

Being dyslexia-friendly in the workplace

An assessment may be required at the start of employment or if the employee is struggling at work to identify any specific work needs and adjustments. Professionals are available to carry out this type of assessment and will provide advice relating to any adjustments or equipment that might help both employee and employer. Alternatively, employers may wish to be guided by the employee, particularly where any adjustments appear to be minimal. You may wish to confer with your HR department or occupational health service for further details.

Most adjustments are simple and inexpensive, however, where additional costs are incurred, employers can apply for funds through the government’s ‘Access to Work’ scheme.

Managers and colleagues can encourage and support dyslexic staff, and create a culture of acceptance with the use of effective communication. Below we have listed some simple changes that could be implemented with ease that would help to support colleagues.

Written communication and reading

Providing written correspondence on coloured paper could makes it easier to read. The same principle applies to computer screens; using a coloured background rather than the standard white may assist employees with reading.
Allow plenty of time to read tasks and instructions, and discuss the content with the person, summarising key points.
Back-up written instructions with verbal communication where possible.
Consider using other methods of communicating, such as the use of flow-charts or mind-mapping diagrams rather than text documents. Using voicemail rather than email, and providing access to assistive technology software – such as ‘text to speech’ – may also assist an employee.

Verbal communication

Provide any necessary instructions one at a time, doing this slowly and clearly, and where possible in a quiet area.
Get the person to repeat things back to you, to check their understanding. Write down important communications or encourage note taking.
Demonstrating tasks can also help.

Concentration

Where possible provide the employee with a quiet work space, away from distractions and excessive noise, such as machinery.
Lay out regular tasks and provide a ‘to do’ list.
Encourage the use of an alarm/calendar on a computer or mobile phone as an aid to help remember important dates, such as deadlines and appointments.
Make use of wall planners.

You may consider speaking to your HR department about awareness training and other courses that can be made available to help support both dyslexic employees and their co-workers.

Although dyslexia does not always affect a person’s ability to carry out normal day to day activities, severe dyslexia may be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010.