What is Dyslexia?
The word 'dyslexia' comes from the Greek and means 'difficulty with words'.
Definition:
Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty which mainly affects the development of literacy and language related skills.
It is likely to be present at birth and to be lifelong in its effects.
It is characterised by difficulties with phonological processing, rapid naming, working memory, processing speed, and the automatic development of skills that may not match up to an individual’s other cognitive abilities.
It tends to be resistant to conventional teaching methods, but its effects can be mitigated by appropriately specific intervention, including the application of information technology and supportive counselling.
Difficulties and strengths:
Possible difficulties.
- Reading hesitantly.
- Misreading, making understanding difficult.
- Difficulty with sequences, e.g. getting dates in order.
- Poor organisation or time management.
- Difficulty organising thoughts clearly.
- Erratic spelling.
Possible strengths:
- Innovative thinkers.
- Excellent trouble shooters.
- Intuitive problem solving.
- Creative in many different ways.
- Lateral thinkers.
Where to look for help
Helplines:
The BDA's National Helpline, staffed by volunteers, is open from 10:00am until 4:00pm Monday to Friday, and open late on Wednesday from 5:00pm- 7:00pm.
Alternatively you can contact the Helpline via email helpline@bdadyslexia.org.uk.
The Helpline is completely free and confidential for all those who are in touch with dyslexia for every age group.
All information, advice and signposting is completely impartial enabling the caller to make important choices and decisions for themselves.
Some Local Dyslexia Associations (LDAs) have helpliners who specialise in information for dyslexic adults.
General helpliners in other LDAs can answer adult enquiries.
Support groups and meetings.
Many LDAs have regular meetings for adult dyslexics.
See regular LDA events here.
Developmental Adult Neuro-Diversity Association (DANDA)
DANDA can advise people with conditions such as dyspraxia, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome.
Assessment, Advice, Tuition
There is a list of BDA Organisational Members available. Some of these offer services to dyslexic adults. They usually charge for these services. LDAs may know of other facilities.
Other sources of help:
- The Disability Employment Advisor at your local Job Centre.
- Adult Basic Education Centre.
- CAB: Citizens' Advice Bureau.
- Your council's Neighbourhood Office.
- Your trade union, if applicable.
- Your local Disability Information Service.
British Telecom services:
- Free Directory Enquiries is a service for anyone who is unable to use a Telephone Directory easily. It is available to diagnosed dyslexic people.
- For registration details call free on Tel: 195.
- Anyone can call for contact details of businesses and services, e.g. to ask for a taxi service in your area.
Email discussion group
This is a dyslexia forum and includes discussions by and for dyslexic people.
