Dyslexia Awareness Week 2026: Looking back on a week of raising awareness

From sharing personal stories to celebrating workplaces getting it right, Dyslexia Awareness Week 2026 brought people together to explore what dyslexia means in real life and how we can make work better for everyone.

It may have come to an end, but we hope the conversations it has started will continue long after the week itself.

This year's theme, Dyslexia in real life: At work, focused on the experiences of dyslexic people in the workplace, celebrating progress while recognising the barriers that still need to be addressed.

We wanted to encourage employers, colleagues and the wider public to look beyond common misconceptions and understand how dyslexia can affect working life. From recruitment and communication to management styles and workplace adjustments, the week explored how a better understanding of dyslexia can make a real difference.

Sharing real experiences of dyslexia

Hearing directly from dyslexic people was an important part of this year's campaign. Personal stories help us understand the realities of dyslexia, from the challenges people face to the strengths and different perspectives they bring to their work.

Throughout the week, we shared experiences that highlighted the impact dyslexia can have on confidence, career progression and everyday working life. These stories also showed why being understood matters, and how the right environment can help people feel more confident about their abilities.

By listening to these experiences, we can better understand what needs to change and learn from those who are finding ways to make things work.

Making workplaces more dyslexia friendly

One of the most encouraging things about this year's campaign was seeing how many workplaces are already recognising the strengths dyslexic people bring to their organisations.

We heard employees speak positively about their employers and the personal support they receive. These experiences were a welcome reminder of the difference that understanding, flexibility and the right adjustments can make. When employers take the time to understand their people, they can help create an environment where dyslexic employees feel valued and able to do their best work.

However, we know this isn't everyone's experience. Many dyslexic people still face barriers at work, whether that's during recruitment, when using workplace systems or when trying to access the adjustments they need. Some also feel unable to be open about their dyslexia for fear of being misunderstood.

There is much we can learn from the organisations getting it right. Clear communication, accessible information and managers who understand dyslexia are practical steps that can make working life better. Just as importantly, recognising both the strengths and challenges associated with dyslexia helps ensure people have the opportunity to develop and progress.

Our aim is for every dyslexic person to feel understood, valued and able to reach their potential at work.

Bringing people together to make a difference

Dyslexia Awareness Week was also an opportunity to bring together people and organisations who share our commitment to improving understanding.

We would like to say a special thank you to Theo Paphitis, our Vice Chair, Emma Dagnes OBE, Chief Executive of Alexandra Palace, Spencer Clarke Group, Speech and Language UK, Natalie Brooks of Dyslexia in Adults and the all MPs who stood with us to raise awareness of dyslexia in the workplace.

We are grateful for their involvement and for helping us bring these conversations to a wider audience. Having voices from across business, public life and the workplace stand alongside us helps reinforce why this matters and encourages more organisations to consider the part they can play.

Thank you, too, to everyone who shared their stories, took part in the campaign and helped spread the word. Your time, honesty and enthusiasm helped make the week what it was.

Keeping the conversation going

While Dyslexia Awareness Week provides an important opportunity to bring people together, improving understanding is something we need to work on throughout the year.

Employers can start by reviewing their recruitment processes, listening to their employees and considering where small changes could remove unnecessary barriers. Managers and colleagues can also make a difference by being open to different ways of working and creating an environment where people feel comfortable discussing what works for them.

At the BDA, we will continue working with dyslexic people, employers and professionals to challenge misconceptions and encourage positive change.

Most importantly, we want to keep hearing from the people whose experiences are at the heart of this work. Their stories remind us why it matters and help us understand where further progress is needed.

Thank you to everyone who was part of Dyslexia Awareness Week 2026. Together, we can keep making dyslexia better understood at work, not just this week, but all year round.