Dyslexia Awareness Week 2026

This year's campaign

The week focused on the experiences of dyslexic employees: what helps them at work, the barriers they face and the support employers can offer. The British Dyslexia Association’s campaign page confirms the dates and theme.

Ideas for a school assembly

Start with the BDA’s assembly materials rather than a list of celebrity diagnoses from social media. A useful follow-up could ask pupils how they prefer instructions to be explained, with ways to respond privately as well as in a group. Teachers can then choose one classroom routine to review.

For another date in the school or workplace calendar, see Neurodiversity Celebration Week. It is a separate campaign with its own organiser and dates.

Turn a workplace awareness session into a useful change

Our suggestion is to choose one everyday task to improve, then check whether the change helps. For example:

1. Before the session: invite private or anonymous feedback on a document, meeting format or application form that people find difficult to use. Make contributing optional.
2. During it: work through one example together. Could instructions be shorter, meeting information arrive earlier or an alternative format be offered?
3. After it: give someone responsibility for trying the change and set a date to ask for feedback.

A colleague’s account can be valuable if they choose to share it. Avoid asking someone to disclose a diagnosis, speak for every dyslexic person or approve a campaign simply because they are dyslexic.

Resources for workplaces and schools

The BDA’s campaign resource page includes practical ideas for dyslexic adults at work, recruitment tips, an activity pack and an assembly presentation. Check which year each item refers to before reusing it.

• Employers and managers: use the BDA’s employer guidance to find information on supporting staff and creating a dyslexia-friendly workplace.
• Parents and carers: the BDA’s information for families covers questions about children and education.
• Anyone looking for advice: the BDA helpline offers free, confidential information and support. Visit its page for current contact options and opening times.