Supporting Employees with Dyslexia - A Guide for Inclusive Workplaces

Dyslexia is a learning difficulty that primarily affects reading, writing, and spelling abilities. However, it is not limited to these skills. Dyslexia is about information processing in that those with dyslexia may have difficulty processing and remembering information which impacts their organisational skills as well as learning and literacy skills. Whilst there are challenges, It is important to remember that these difficulties come with positives, including thinking differently. On LinkedIn “dyslexic thinking” is listed as a skill and it’s seen by many as a positive. Many people with dyslexia also have strong problem solving and reason skills as well as being very visual and creative.

By implementing thoughtful strategies, employers can ensure that their work environment accommodates and empowers employees with dyslexia. In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to support individuals with dyslexia in the workplace.

Raise Awareness and Understanding

Begin by educating your entire workforce about dyslexia. Promote a culture of understanding and empathy, dispelling common misconceptions. Encourage open communication, allowing employees to share their experiences and challenges. This awareness helps create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.

Provide Clear Communication

Employees with dyslexia often struggle with processing information. To mitigate this, focus on clear and concise communication. Use bullet points, headings, and visual aids to break down complex information. When sending emails or instructions, consider following up with verbal communication to ensure understanding, and following up verbal instructions in writing. Provide hard copy resources on coloured paper where this helps the individual and on the coloured paper that helps them.

Flexible Work Arrangements

Recognise that dyslexia may require flexibility in work arrangements. Allow employees to use assistive technologies or provide extra time for tasks that involve reading and writing. Offering flexible work hours or remote work options can also be beneficial, as it allows individuals to work in environments that cater to their specific needs. Enable regular breaks and the ability to alternate tasks, especially where computer work is a large part of the role.

Use Dyslexia-Friendly Fonts and Formats

Adjust the fonts and formats used in written communication to make them more accessible. Choose sans-serif fonts like Arial or Calibri, as they are often easier to read. Use a larger font size and ensure proper spacing between lines and paragraphs to enhance readability. The ability to change the colour of the screen and provision of anti-glare screen filters can also be beneficial for some people with dyslexia.

Implement Assistive Technologies

Leverage technology to support employees with dyslexia. Screen readers, speech-to-text software, and dyslexia-friendly fonts can significantly improve accessibility. Encourage employees to explore these tools and provide the necessary training and resources.

Provide Training and Workshops

Conduct training sessions to educate employees and supervisors about dyslexia. Offer workshops on creating an inclusive workspace and provide guidance on how to adapt communication styles to accommodate different learning needs. This proactive approach helps build a more supportive and understanding work environment.

Create a Quiet Workspace

Some individuals with dyslexia may find it challenging to concentrate in a noisy environment. Designate quiet workspaces or provide noise-cancelling headphones to create an environment conducive to focus and productivity.

Offer Regular Feedback and Encouragement

Provide constructive feedback regularly and be encouraging. Recognise and celebrate the unique strengths and contributions of employees with dyslexia. Positive reinforcement boosts confidence and a sense of belonging within the team.

Conclusion

By taking proactive steps to support employees with dyslexia, employers contribute to the creation of an inclusive and diverse workplace. Understanding the unique needs of individuals with dyslexia and implementing practical strategies can lead to increased job satisfaction, productivity, and overall team success. Embracing inclusivity benefits not only those with dyslexia but the entire organisation, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

Article last updated: 9 February 2024