Free assessments discussed in Parliament

Minister commits to “further engagement” with Dyslexia Scotland in relation to Manifesto asks

Rona Mackay MSP asked the Scottish Government what progress it has made towards the establishment of a pathway for free dyslexia assessments at the point of contact for adults at General Questions in the Scottish Parliament yesterday.

The question came about following the publication of Dyslexia Scotland’s Manifesto, which was accompanied by an open letter to political leaders signed by over 1,100 supporters.

Minister for Social Care and Mental Wellbeing Tom Arthur responded to the question, stating that the Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that all children, young people and adults with dyslexia receive the support that they need to reach their full potential.

Tom Arthur MSP said: “There are clear duties on education authorities to identify, provide for and review the additional support needs of school pupils. In relation to adults and employment, our fair work approach ensures that disabled people, including those with dyslexia, get the support that they need at work without an adult assessment, including through the Access to Work scheme and working health services Scotland.”

Rona Mackay MSP asked a follow-up question of the Minister: “Around one in 10 people in Scotland are dyslexic. Without meaningful reform, too many people will be disadvantaged in a perpetual cycle. Adult assessments and early intervention along with teacher training and school support are key asks of Dyslexia Scotland’s manifesto. Can the minister confirm that the Scottish Government will commit to addressing those issues in the next parliamentary session?”

Tom Arthur MSP responded to say that the Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that all children, young people and adults with dyslexia receive appropriate support to reach their full potential and that he and the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills will have further engagement with Dyslexia Scotland.