Page 56 - Part-A

Understanding Specific Learning Difficulties

The importance of early diagnosis of Specific Learning
Difficulties

Once the individual’s needs have been identified, then the impact on their life, learning
and future prospects can be assessed and the right support can be provided.

Key Fact

The earlier a child with dyslexia is diagnosed, the more effective
educational interventions are likely to be.
Source: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dyslexia/diagnosis/

There are times when having a diagnosis is especially useful, such as before going to
university or taking a job. For prospective students, an assessment by an occupational
therapist or educational psychologist for practical advice before going to college or
university will identify appropriate adjustments and support to suit their learning style.

For a young person going to college or university, there is also an entitlement to an
assessment of needs. These assessments are usually quite thorough and productive,
and will advise the university or employer about what is needed to allow the person to
function on an equal footing with their colleagues and peers.

Receiving a diagnosis might help the person to make sense of their previous
experiences and identify effective strategies to support their individual situations.

For someone in employment, a diagnostic assessment will identify their strengths and
should help with making reasonable adjustments at work, which in turn will help the
person to maintain employment and job satisfaction.

Key Fact

The calculated cost of poor literacy to society is £2.5 billion a year.

Source: Every Child a Reader, 2009, p14

54