Dyslexia
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is not a reflection of someone’s intelligence. It is the outcome of how and the speed at which, the brain processes language in any form. It also impacts organisational skills. It is often compensated by strong visual and verbal skills.
It is thought anywhere between 1 in 10 to 1 in 4 people have dyslexia
A diagnosis is not currently available on the NHS and must be sought privately. TSSA Neurodiversity Equality Reps can provide a screener (not a diagnosis).
Features of dyslexia
Positives
- Excellent spatial reasoning
- Good long term memory (narrative reasoning)
- Visual processing
- Seeing holistically (big picture thinking)
- Connects dots and sees things others don't
Challenges
- Paperwork takes a long time
- Prioritising tasks
- Disorganised (documents and items)
- Untidy desks
- Comprehension of documents may be poor or slow
Dyslexia - Reasonable Adjustments
Some suggestions for workplace changes are listed below
Examples of where key reasonable adjustments can be made are listed below but, this is not an exhaustive list and not everything will be applicable to everyone.
- In meetings, discussion
- Written materials (including documents, signage and publicity)
- In training or any learning environment
- Devices
- Software
- Specialist stationery
- Hardware
- Workflow and assignments
- Adjustments to deadlines
- Annual Assessments
- Workplace environment
If you have any concerns or want to find out more please contact your TSSA rep or the TSSA Helpdesk
Want to find out more about dyslexia – here's the best place to start
Ricky talks about Irlen's Syndome
Tedx talk on dyslexia
Member advice from our Helpdesk
If you are a TSSA member and are looking for advice or assistance in connection with your employment or membership, you can contact our Members’ Helpdesk.
We can advise on a range of workplace issues including; discipline and grievance hearing, maternity rights and redundancy.
Helpdesk opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00 Monday - Thursday | 09:00 - 16:00 Friday
Please note: we cannot undertake to provide advice to non-members, to members of other unions, or to members on behalf of their partners/friends. If you are not yet a member, please join TSSA online.