Role of the British Dyslexia Association

The role of the British Dyslexia Association in promoting inclusive education and workplace practices

Dyslexia, a specific learning difficulty that affects reading, writing, and spelling, impacts millions of individuals worldwide. In the United Kingdom, the British Dyslexia Association (BDA) stands at the forefront of efforts to support and empower those with dyslexia. Established in 1972, the BDA is a registered charity that provides vital resources, advocacy, and training to promote a better understanding of dyslexia and ensure that individuals receive the necessary support in educational and workplace settings. In this blog, Dr Richard Dune explores the role of the BDA, highlighting key statistics, definitions, legislative frameworks, and best practices for supporting individuals with dyslexia.

Key definitions

What is Dyslexia? - Dyslexia is a common learning difficulty that primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading and spelling. It is a neurological condition, often hereditary, and it exists on a spectrum from mild to severe. Dyslexia is not related to intelligence but can make traditional learning and work tasks more challenging without appropriate support.

Key facts and statistics

According to the BDA, approximately 10% of the UK population is affected by dyslexia to some degree.
Of this, 4% have severe dyslexia, requiring significant support.
Dyslexia often co-occurs with other learning difficulties, such as dysgraphia, dyspraxia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Legislative and regulatory framework

The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 is a crucial piece of legislation in the UK that protects individuals from discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including disability. Under this Act, dyslexia is recognised as a disability, and individuals with dyslexia are entitled to reasonable adjustments in education and employment to ensure they are not at a disadvantage compared to their peers.

The Children and Families Act 2014

This Act introduced a more holistic approach to supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including dyslexia. It emphasises the importance of coordinated support across education, health, and social care to meet the needs of these individuals.

Recommended best practices

Educational settings

Early identification and assessment - Are crucial for providing timely support. Schools should implement screening processes and provide access to professional assessments.
Individualised Education Plans (IEPs) - Developing tailored education plans that address the specific needs of dyslexic students can help ensure they receive appropriate support. This may include specialised teaching methods, assistive technology, and adjustments in examination settings.
Teacher training - Investing in dyslexia awareness training for teachers and support staff is essential. The BDA offers accredited training programmes that equip educators with the skills to recognise and support dyslexic students effectively.

Workplace settings

Reasonable adjustments - Employers are legally required to make reasonable adjustments for employees with dyslexia. This can include providing assistive technology, flexible working arrangements, and additional time for tasks.
Workplace assessments - Conducting workplace assessments can help identify specific adjustments that can enhance productivity and well-being for dyslexic employees.
Training and awareness - Providing dyslexia awareness training for all employees can foster an inclusive workplace culture. The BDA offers training programmes that educate staff about dyslexia and how to support colleagues effectively.

The role of the British Dyslexia Association

The BDA plays a multifaceted role in promoting the rights and support of individuals with dyslexia through the following key activities:

Advocacy and awareness

The BDA advocates for policy changes and greater awareness of dyslexia. It campaigns for improved recognition and support within educational institutions and workplaces.

Training and certification

The BDA provides a range of training courses and certification programmes for educators, employers, and support staff. These programmes are designed to enhance understanding and practical skills for supporting dyslexic individuals.

Resources and support

The BDA offers a wealth of resources, including helplines, online information, and support groups for individuals with dyslexia and their families. These resources provide crucial guidance and reassurance.

Conclusion

The British Dyslexia Association is a pivotal organisation in the UK, dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with dyslexia. Through advocacy, training, and support, the BDA ensures that educational institutions and workplaces are equipped to provide inclusive environments where dyslexic individuals can thrive. By implementing best practices and adhering to legislative frameworks, we can create a society that recognises and supports the unique strengths and needs of those with dyslexia.

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About the author

Dr Richard Dune

With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.