What is dyslexia?

Date: 03 April 2007

What is dyslexia?

Information explaining what dyslexia is and what to do if you think you may be dyslexic.

Dyslexia can affect:

• Reading and writing.

• Memory.

• Number work.

• Concentration for long periods on certain kinds of tasks.

Over 11/2 million adults are dyslexic. You are not on your own.

Dyslexia has not stopped these people from making it:

• Bill Gates

• Whoopi Goldberg

• Eddie Izzard

• Albert Einstein

• Anthea Turner

• John Prescott

Dyslexia hasn't stopped these people getting involved in Usdaw:

• George Cain, Area Organiser, Newcastle

• Colin Davies, Area Organiser, Andover

• Byron Merret, Executive Councillor

This is what people say about being dyslexic:

"At school they said I was lazy and should try harder."

"When I had to fill in the form, I just panicked."

"My memory is like a sieve."

"Some days I manage quite well - but on others, reading and spelling are impossible."

"When I write down what I am thinking, it comes out all wrong."

Do you think you might be dyslexic?

1. Do you tend to confuse left and right?
2. Is it hard to remember several instructions?
3. Do you ever muddle number order - e.g. when dialling 'phone numbers?
4. Do you have to think about getting your letters the right way round, especially b and d?
5. Are you generally forgetful?
6. Do you have problems recalling everyday words?
7. Do you keep losing your place when you read?
8. Can you pick a month and say which month comes before and after it?
9. Did you have a lot of problems with spelling and reading at school?
10. Do you have days when it is almost impossible to read, spell or concentrate?

Did you answer "Yes" to at least half of these questions?
Do you want to know what to do if you think you are dyslexic?
If you do, please look at the information below.

How do I find out for sure?

1. Your Employer

   Some employers are prepared to pay for assessments. Ask your union representative to check with personnel.

2. Local College

   If you are on a course at a college, ask to see Student Services. They can refer you to a specialist tutor, or a psychologist. You can get help in class, or extra time in exams.

3. Job Centre

   Ask for the Disability Employment Advisor. They can do an initial assessment, and may refer you to an Occupational Psychologist.You may be able to get some special equipment to help you at work.

4. Your Doctor

   Explain that you think you may be dyslexic. The doctor needs to refer you to a specialist in adult dyslexia, through the dyslexia organisations. The doctor can treat you for associated stress, anxiety or depression, or may refer you for counselling.

5. A Private Assessment

   A private assessment would cost you between £150 - £250.

Your local Dyslexic Association may be able to suggest the best route in your area.

Find out more

Contact the The British Dyslexia Association (0118 966 8271) or The Adult Dyslexia Organisation (0171 924 9559) for advice, information and encouragement.

Sometimes your employer can help with the cost of an assessment or tuition from a specialist in dyslexia. Ask your local representative to find out for you.

Discover how to:

• Appreciate your talents.

• Develop your coping skills.

• Overcome your dyslexic difficulties.

The Disability Discrimination Act applies to interviews, job descriptions, work situations and the unfair dismissal of adults with disabilities.

Usdaw have also produced a guide for workplace stewards and representatives, and aims to give some guidance on helping a member when dyslexia is causing a problem at work. For more details see An Usdaw guide to dyslexia which can be viewed printed and downloaded online, or hard copies can be ordered via the Stationery department at Central Office.

Get informed, get trained, get organised and get learning!

What is dyslexia? was correct at date of publication July 2004.

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Last Modified: Tuesday, 17-Apr-2007 19:45:14 EST