October 3rd to 9th is Dyslexia Awareness Week

Read more about Dyslexia Awareness Week in a short note from Dr. Alex Rowe:

Approximately 15% of people globally have some form of dyslexia.¹ Dyslexia impacts men and women equally and is found in communities in every part of the world irrespective of education or background. With statistics showing that about 10% of workforces experiencing dyslexia, every employer should employ strategies that support their colleagues who are affected.²

It should not be surprising that dyslexia is commonly seen as an obstacle to success in the workplace. However, it is important to be aware that once the signs have been recognised, there are simple solutions that can support individuals across the workplace. As dyslexia is officially classified as a disability, employers are mandated to provide reasonable adjustments to help individuals with dyslexia navigate issues that are caused by the condition.³

Simple solutions such as screen-readers can help employees with reading and writing. Colleagues can also record meetings to prevent reliance on written notes.¹⁰  Wider emotional support can also be made available to colleagues with dyslexia or who may support a family member with the condition through UnitedHealthcare Global’s Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

Dyslexia Awareness Week takes place between the 3^rd and 9^th of October. This year’s theme is focused on breaking down the barriers those with dyslexia face and looking at how organisations and education systems can succeed in navigating those obstacles.⁴ At UnitedHealthcare, we encourage everyone to support their colleagues and help raise awareness around this common condition to ensure dyslexia does not hold anyone back in the workplace. - Dr. Alex Rowe, Medical Director, Europe, UnitedHealthcare Global

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

Resources

^{1: https://www.dyslexia-reading-well.com/dyslexia-statistics.html
2: https://www.dyslexia.uk.net/employers/#:~:text=Since%20statistically%20about%2010%20per,dyslexia%20and%20to%20take%20action
3: https://www.dyslexia.uk.net/employers/#
4: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/support-us/awareness-events/dyslexia-awareness-week/dyslexia-awareness-week-2022}