Drop in event for dyslexia awareness

People wanting to know more about the dyslexia support and advice that is available can join a drop in event this October.

The event is free but people are being encouraged to register to attend the event (opens new window).

Wiltshire Council is hosting the Dyslexia Awareness Event at County Hall on 12 October from 2pm - 5pm.

The event is open to parents/ carers, school staff and anyone who would like to find out more about dyslexia in Wiltshire. They are invited to stop by and chat to experts and listen to speakers on a range of topics on dyslexia. There will be resources on display and experts will include assistive technology specialists.

People can use the event to also find out about:

• Wiltshire dyslexia friendly schools
• Support and advice for families and where to go for help
• The work of Wiltshire Specialist Special Educational Needs Service (SSENS)
• Dyslexia books and resources available to borrow

The event is being held shortly after national British Dyslexia Association: Dyslexia (opens new window) from 3 - 9  October which focusses on the barriers that those living with dyslexia often face and how individuals, organisations and the education system has continued to succeed and break through obstacles. The event aligns with the council business plan to ensure every child can achieve their optimal physical, emotional and mental health and for the people of Wiltshire to be empowered to live full, healthy and enriched lives

Cllr Jane Davies, Cabinet Member for SEND said: "This is a coming together of key people who can provide support and information to those with dyslexia and others who want to support someone else. People can drop in and chat at a time that suits them. We welcome families and people of all ages to join this event, so we can work together to deepen understanding. People don't have to feel alone and we want them to know where they can find support and help."

Those attending or supporting the event include Wiltshire Council's Specialist SEN Service (SSENS), Wiltshire Dyslexia Association, Wiltshire Parent Carer Council and Marlborough and District Dyslexia Association.

Earlier this year two Wiltshire primary schools were successful in achieving the British Dyslexia Association's nationally recognised Dyslexia Friendly Quality Mark. Following verification visits from British Dyslexia Association (BDA) earlier this month, both Lyneham Primary School and Malmesbury C of E Primary School have been officially recognised as dyslexia friendly schools. Wiltshire Council's Specialist SEN Service (SSENS) is currently supporting 17 primary and secondary schools across Wiltshire to achieve the Quality Mark.