The Missing Link in the ‘Chain’ of Workplace Dyslexia Support

Feeling safe to take the first step has commonly been a barrier to dyslexic/neuro-divergent adults accessing the support they need within the workplace.  However, a new initiative, piloted at Imperial College London earlier this year, now means there is an information & guidance conduit which is safe, professional and confidential.

​For far too long adults with dyslexia and other neuro-divergent ‘conditions’ have been reluctant to speak out when they experience challenges with their work tasks.  This can be due to a variety of reasons including; fear of discrimination & prejudice, the potential risk of it affecting their professional credibility as well as a lack of confidence & low self-esteem due to having tried to cope on their own for a long period of time. (Plus, many people may not realise their challenges could be associated with a ‘processing difference’ such as dyslexia, as literacy may not be a major problem for them).

The impact of not speaking to someone about their problems and not accessing appropriate support can be far-reaching, often resulting in them not achieving to their full potential …and not being able to fully utilise the strengths they may have which are associated with their ‘processing difference’.  Sadly, the longer-term picture is that this can have a negative impact on overall wellbeing and, for some, it can also have a negative effect on mental health. 

 Whilst there are an increasing number of proactive and well-informed employers providing appropriate tailored support for their dyslexic/neuro-divergent employees, even in these workplaces there has, until now, been a vital ‘missing link’ in the chain of workplace support. A place of safety, someone they can speak to, someone who is approachable, knowledgeable & impartial … someone who has undergone a course of specialist training in order to ensure they provide accurate information and appropriate signposting.

It is now possible to have these invaluable colleagues in every type of organisation. These graduates of the Dyslexia Champions™ training & accreditation programme are volunteers who augment the organisation’s existing dyslexia/neuro-divergence support provisions and work alongside current HR processes thus helping provide a seamless, accessible process of workplace dyslexia/neuro-divergence support.
 
For more information please visit www.dyslexia-champions.org