About us
Contents
- About the British Dyslexia Association
- Our History
- Our Senior Team
- Our Honorary President and Vice-Presidents
- Our Trustees
- Our Ambassadors
- Join our Team
- Projects
- Research Support Requests
- Participate in Research
- Compliments, Concerns and Complaints Policy
- British Dyslexia Association - International Conferences
Our History
Celebrating over 50 Years of the BDA
The British Dyslexia Association (BDA) has been in existence for over 50 years and we are proud to share the incredible journey of our charity, from its humble beginnings to the national organisation it is today.
At the heart of this story is our Founder, Marion Welchman MBE, whose dedication and pioneering efforts helped shape the support available for people with dyslexia across the UK.
Marion was a pioneer in dyslexia awareness whose dedication helped transform support for dyslexic individuals across the UK. While searching for support for her son, she came across the Orton Dyslexia Society in the USA, inspiring her to start the Bath Association for the Study of Dyslexia.
The Birth of a National Movement
The Bath Association’s model quickly gained traction, with similar groups forming across the country. Marion recognised the urgent need for a national organisation to unite these efforts, and in 1972, with a grant from the Dulverton Trust, the British Dyslexia Association was established. The newly formed BDA brought together eight local dyslexia associations, with the Bath Association’s Charles Thompson serving as the first Chairman and Lord Radnor as President.
The BDA was built on the passion and commitment of volunteers—parents, teachers, and professionals who were dedicated to understanding dyslexia and improving the lives of those affected by it. In its early years, the charity operated from volunteer homes, moving to London in 1978 before relocating in 1982 to Peppard, where Jennifer Smith generously housed the BDA and volunteered as its administrator for a decade. It was during this time that the first informal helpline was launched, run entirely by volunteers.
As awareness grew, so did the need for specialist training. In 1984, the BDA developed and introduced the BDA Diploma, a milestone in professional dyslexia education. The demand for space and resources led to the opening of a dedicated BDA office in Reading in 1986, marking the beginning of formal staff appointments. Today, the BDA continues its mission from its headquarters in Bracknell.
A Lasting Legacy and a Vision for the Future
From those first passionate parents and educators in the 1970s, the BDA has grown into a national leader in dyslexia support and advocacy. We provide training for teachers and workplaces, offer assessments, train and accredit Specialist Teachers and Assessors, run a national helpline, and support both parents and adults with dyslexia. We also provide the secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dyslexia, ensuring that dyslexia remains a priority on the national agenda.
While much progress has been made—particularly in reducing stigma—the reality for many people with dyslexia remains one of misunderstanding and lack of support. That is why our work continues.
Our vision is a world where dyslexia is fully understood, and where the BDA is no longer needed because every child and adult with dyslexia has access to the support and services they require to thrive. Until that day comes, we remain committed to advocating for change, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that every person with dyslexia is given the opportunity to reach their full potential.
With thanks to Caroline Fowke (Wiltshire Dyslexia Association) for supplying archive materials.