Dyslexia Awareness Week 2025: Raising the Volume on Early Screening

Last week’s Dyslexia Awareness Week (6–12 October) carried a powerful theme: “Raise the Volume.” It wasn’t just about awareness - it was about amplifying the voices of young people with dyslexia and acting on what they’ve been telling us for years.

What young people are saying:

The British Dyslexia Association’s report, “Set up for somebody else,” gathered insights from over 500 young people with dyslexia. Their message was clear: they often feel unsupported, misunderstood, and left to navigate school without the help they need.

The petition calls for two key changes:

• Screen children for dyslexia within their first two years at school.

• Equip teachers with the training and resources to support every child.

Here’s what young people shared:

• Many feel they’re seen as lazy or less capable, rather than recognised for their strengths.

• 70% said dyslexia had negatively affected their self-esteem.

• 60% hide their dyslexia, fearing stigma or misunderstanding.

• 60% reported being teased or bullied because of it.

• Nearly 1 in 5 don’t have access to assistive technology at school.

• Over a third rated their school support as only ‘fair’ or ‘poor’.

This isn’t just about education - it’s about confidence, self-esteem and futures being held back. The campaign aims to keep the pressure on the Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, as she prepares SEND reforms.

Raising the volume means listening - and acting.

If you’re a parent, teacher or policymaker, now’s the time to turn up the volume. Not just for awareness, but for action.

📢 Sign the BDA’s petition to support early screening and real inclusion: Turn Up the Volume Petitionume Petition