Dyslexia training for workplace assessors Tuesday, November 8, 2011 - 10:07

NIACE is offering training for workplace assessors and trainers, to help them understand dyslexia, how to support people with dyslexia undertaking training or learning in the workplace and what the obligations of employers are under The Equality Act 2010. The training session will take place in London, on 25 January 2012 and further details can be found here.

Linda Dixon, NIACE Lead Officer on Dyslexia said:

"Although most people are familiar with the term and will probably know someone who has dyslexia, they may not realise how it affects people in education, at work and in day to day life. But there is lots of support and information available, alongside the training that NIACE is offering. For instance, Dyslexia in our own words, published by Unison provides inspirational stories of how dyslexic Unison members have fought to become active in the union. By supporting the difficulties faced by workers with dyslexia, employers can reap the benefits of the strengths that it can bring such as creativity, problem solving and intuition."

Unionlearn have recently carried out a comprehensive survey which revealed some interesting quantitative and qualitative data. Key figures include:

- 80% aware of workers with dyslexia

- 68% aware that workers with dyslexia find working situations difficult

- 43% think people with dyslexia are more vulnerable to redundancy

- 96% would welcome more training on dyslexia

UNISON's practical tool for people as part of the wider UNISON Skills for Life Strategy, Dyslexia in our own words, is based on case studies of UNISON members sharing their experiences of dealing with dyslexia in a positive way. The booklet includes information on why dyslexia is an equalities issue, how to get a dyslexia assessment, how to organise around dyslexia, tips on making communication dyslexia-friendly and where to go to further information.

Download a pdf of Dyslexia in our own words or email Jane Pettit at J.Pettit@unison.co.uk for hard copies.