Shropshire Libraries supports Dyslexia Awareness Week

Shropshire Libraries are supporting Dyslexia Awareness Week, Monday 5 October –Sunday 11 October 2015, by highlighting their children and teenage dyslexia-friendly book stock. Dyslexia friendly books are specially designed to help people with dyslexia to get to grips with reading.

Information and guidance is also available for professionals and parents, as well as a new book “Creative, Successful, Dyslexic”, which explores the stories of 23 high-achievers with dyslexia.

All the books are available to request at your local library.

Dyslexia affects approximately one in ten people in the UK, that is over 6 million people. It is the most common and best understood hidden disability, yet much still needs to be done to help people ‘make sense of dyslexia’, says the charity Dyslexia Action.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for business and culture, said:-

“Our libraries are well-placed to offer support, information and a welcoming space. It is good to see our libraries so effectively helping the Dyslexia Awareness Week.”

If dyslexia is not identified early enough, it can hinder a person’s learning and have negative, long-term social consequences, not only for the individual but also for society. For many people affected by dyslexia the biggest difference to their progress and well-being comes from being able to learn or work in an environment where there is a good understanding of what dyslexia is, and a positive, supportive attitude amongst colleagues, teachers and peers.

For more information on how to get the right help and support and useful resources for parents, teachers and employers visit www.dyslexiaaction.org.uk.

For more information about Shropshire Libraries Dyslexia Collection contact Annabel Gittins on 01743 255031 or email annabel.gittins@shropshire.gov.uk.