Did you know that Dyslexia is recognised legally as a disability in Ireland?
A diagnosis of Dyslexia means more for a child than simply a “difficulty with words” and it’s not something that will simply go away in time if ignored. It is a specific learning disability (SLD) which can cause difficulty with reading, spelling and sometimes numbers. A person with dyslexia can also have difficulty with right and left, sequencing, memory and following instructions.
However, Dyslexia’s status as a recognised legal disability is a good and important thing, as it establishes the right to various accommodations that can be provided to children in education and later on in the workplace – which is where the Dyslexia Association of Ireland (DAI) comes in…
What is the Dyslexia Association of Ireland?
Founded in 1972, the Dyslexia Association of Ireland (DAI) is a charity which works with and for people affected by dyslexia, by providing information, offering appropriate support services, engaging in advocacy and raising awareness of dyslexia.
Its vision is a dyslexia friendly society where all people with dyslexia are enabled to fulfill their potential, where every child and adult with dyslexia has access to appropriate identification and support to achieve their full potential in education, training, employment and all aspects of life.
How DAI Supports Dyslexic Children and Their Parents
DAI offers a range of services specifically designed to support children with dyslexia related learning difficulties. These include:
- information and awareness raising resources
- educational psychology assessments
- courses on dyslexia for parents and teachers
- tuition for dyslexia
- advocacy & campaigning
Aside from these services, DAI also have a great selection of online resources for dyslexia on its website www.dyslexia.ie, such as this page, which lists some excellent books for young people providing information and guidance on dyslexia.
How DAI Raises Funds to Help Spread Awareness
DAI rely greatly on donations from the public to help them to support people with dyslexia. If you’d like to donate, you can do so by following this link.
You can also help by becoming a member of the DAI. Memberships range between €20 and €60 and will keep you up to date on DAI news, events and campaigns via email. Members can also avail of support services, including reduced rates for some training events and access to exclusive member benefits such as monthly #TeamDyslexia resource packs.
Get Help From the Dyslexia Association of Ireland
If you have a child who has either already been diagnosed with dyslexia or you think might benefit from an assessment, you can find out more about DAI on their website or you can get in touch by calling 01 877 6001 or emailing [email protected]
About the Author: Robyn Hamilton
