Dyslexia in Adults - Help, Support & Resources
Dyslexia in Adults
Dyslexia is a Specific Learning Disability (SpLD), appearing as difficulties primarily with literacy skills. Dyslexia can appear in children and in adults.
On this part of the site, you will find, information exclusively for Dyslexia in adults and Help, Support and Resources to try to overcome these difficulties.
Plus Dyslexia Help, Support & Resources for adults. Indicators of Dyslexia, How to arrange for an Adult Dyslexia Test or Adult Dyslexia Assessment; Software for Dyslexia adults. Information for Employers & Dyslexia in the Workplace.
Age is no Barrier to Dyslexia Testing!
Dyslexia in Adults
Many adults with dyslexia suffer from low self-esteem, lack of confidence and fall short of their employment ability; they are often relieved to know their lack of progress is due to dyslexia and once diagnosed, they can receive the right kind of help.
Recent research showed a high proportion of self-made millionaires are dyslexic, probably because they had the tenacity and self-belief to succeed.
Many dyslexics excel in areas such as:
* Architecture
* Arts
* Computer sciences
* Construction * Electronics
* Engineering
* Entertainment
* Mathematics
* Physics
* Sports.
Dyslexia - Workplace Needs Assessment
Many adults in the workplace have never been assessed for dyslexia. We get people of all ages, saying they think they have dyslexia and how can they get help. Recently an adult male, 60 years, said he had read something and thought that sounded ‘just like him’. Another caller said, he didn’t realise that he was probably dyslexic until his grandchild was diagnosed.
Age is no barrier to testing!
Workplace Needs Assessment
If you are having problems at work, which you believe is related to your dyslexia, you can ask for a ‘Workplace Needs Assessment’. The Assessor will go into your workplace at a convenient time and watch you work, take your opinions into account, (and those of management, if necessary).
You will receive a comprehensive report advising, any specific help that is required; such as Voice Recognition Software (VRS), Spell-Checker, Grammar Checker, or other specialist software.
Provided the requirements are ‘reasonable’, your employer will have to look at implementing the recommendations. Often the items in question can be provided by the company at a very reasonable price. This comes under the ‘reasonable adjustments’ that employers should make.
Find an Assessor for a ‘Workplace Needs Assessment’
The British Dyslexia Association (BDA), can arrange for assessments or testing to be carried out, as do, other providers around the country.
Do not be afraid to ask for help. Why keep struggling when support is available?
The BDA can be contacted via their website: BDA Workplace Assessments.
Dyslexia - Access to Work (AtW) Scheme
People with dyslexia should be able to use the Access to Work Scheme (AtW). This scheme (AtW) offers help to place people with learning difficulties (dyslexia) at work. Under this scheme (AtW), you may also be provided with training facilities to help with your dyslexia.
The Access to Work (AtW) scheme can similarly provide practical and financial support for people with dyslexia.
The amount of money you may get is dependent on your circumstances, but these monies do not have to be paid back and will not affect any other benefits.
Support Groups for Adults with Dyslexia
‘Support Groups’ for adults with dyslexia; are an excellent way to meet other dyslexic people. This way you can get ideas from others as well as get help and support from your peers.
Many groups have inspirational speakers who can talk about a wide range of issues surrounding dyslexia; coping strategies, resources etc.
You will find a list of various Adult Dyslexia Support Groups, below:
Adult Dyslexia Organisation (ADO)
ADO is run by dyslexics for dyslexics and all those concerned with supporting Adult dyslexics.
Adult Dyslexia Organisation (ADO)
London Adult Support Group
A self-help group who share experiences and learn from each other.
London Adult Support Group
Birmingham Adult Support Group
‘Badg is a self-help user led dyslexic group. It was started in the mid 1990’s in Birmingham. It is probably one of the earliest and largest, longest running adult self-help groups in Europe.’
BADG
Dyslexic by Nature
The group aim to reduce the social isolation and stigma individuals with dyslexia feel. Chorlton area of Manchester.
Dyslexia by Nature
DAN
The Dyslexia Adult Network (DAN) has been founded to increase awareness of the
impact of dyslexia and related conditions on adults.
DAN
DABBGL – (Dyslexia Association of Brexley, Bromley, Greenwich & Lewisham)
The group offers opportunities to exchange positive experiences, as well as the chance to seek practical advice from guest speakers and others within the group.
Dyslexia Association
Dyslexia Foundation
Assisting adults with dyslexia across the North-West.
Dyslexia Foundation
Dyslexia Scotland Adults
With resources, advice and support – ‘make sure dyslexia doesn’t hold you back’.
Dyslexia Scotland Adult
Dyslexia - Books, Pamphlets & Publications
There is quite a lot of good information for adults about dyslexia. The BDA and Dyslexia Action published some exellent books and pamphlets which I am sure you would find useful.
British Dyslexia Association
Tips for the Dyslexic Adult by the BDA
Tips for the Dyslexic Adult
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