Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that mostly affects reading, writing and spelling skills but it can present itself in different ways in different people.
Some people may struggle with processing, memory or with their organisational skills while other people may find spelling and reading difficult. It is estimated that up to 1 in every 10 people in the UK has some degree of dyslexia which means many children and young people (CYP) are navigating their education and daily lives with this. *NHS
To help gain an insight into these experiences, we spoke with a mum and daughter, Lou and Belle, on our Hidden Voices podcast series about Belle’s lived experience including the signs that led to a diagnosis, the challenges she has faced, the support they have received and the advice they give to other CYP.
In this podcast, Lou and Belle reflect on the journey to diagnosis, discussing the early signs and the process they went through to receive the official diagnosis of dyslexia. They also spoke about how dyslexia had impacted Belle emotionally and practically, including the changes within the school support she was receiving.
They were both keen to emphasise that dyslexia is “not just about struggling with spelling” and that it can affect many different aspects of learning and daily life. Belle’s experiences highlight the importance of raising awareness so that CYP with dyslexia receive the understanding and tailored support that they need.
This podcast also delves further into this support received and what has worked best for Belle, from both her perspective and from her mum, Lou’s, and how accessing the right support has made a positive difference. The shared their own advice to other CYP with dyslexia which was very clear, including not to worry about it and people will be there to help you.
By sharing Belle’s and Lou’s voices through our Hidden Voices podcast series, we hope to shine a light on the experiences of children and young people with dyslexia, offering awareness and inspiration for others going through similar journeys.
You can listen to the podcast here.