Deborah Cobbing

Dyslexia is a lifelong, genetic, neurological Specific Learning Difficulty (SpLD)
which primarily affects the skills involved in accurate and fluent word reading
and spelling. It affects all genders, ethnicities and social groups, and its
impact can range from mild to severe.

It is a specific learning difficulty because it only impacts particular aspects of
learning and is not connected to intellectual ability. Some people prefer to
use the term Specific Learning Difference.

Dyslexia is a hidden disability and many of the signs of dyslexia are not
obvious in the way depression, anxiety or a physical disability can be. It is
most visible in the impact it can have on reading and writing skills, but it can
also have a less visible impact upon information processing and working
memory. This affects the amount of information that someone can remember
and the speed with which they can access and recall information.

Dyslexia can present daily barriers in education, in the workplace and in life,
and many find it hard to thrive in a system that often fails to recognise, value,
or encourage them. They may feel shame for their differences, which may
be misinterpreted as lack of ability, laziness or conduct issues. This can have
a big impact upon their confidence and self-esteem, as well as limiting life
choices.

A diagnosis can be made by a Specialist Teacher Assessor with an
Assessment Practicing Certificate (APC) or an HCPC registered Educational
Psychologist but diagnosis is not routinely carried out at school.

Simple changes or adjustments at school and in the workplace based on
individual needs can have a big impact on the lives of dyslexic people.

To book an assessment email: deborah_cobbing@yahoo.co.uk or text: 07779 014 151

Taken from: British Dyslexia Association – Dyslexia Factsheet