DyslexiFest comes to Stirling

This weekend, DyslexiFest will take place in Stirling.

The event is run by national charity Dyslexia Scotland to promote awareness of dyslexia.

But this event isn’t just for dyslexic people, as the charity highlights how everyone could gain something by coming along – since even if you’re not dyslexic yourself, no doubt you will know someone who is.

According to Dyslexia Scotland, 1 in 10 Scots is dyslexic, but many of those may not even realise that they are.

Dyslexia Scotland’s Chief Executive Cathy Magee said: “This learning difference is like a two-sided coin, often characterised by difficulties with reading, writing, memory and processing information, but with strong abilities in visual thinking and problem solving. DyslexiFest aims to showcase dyslexic strengths and highlight the help and support available to help manage any difficulties. If you have dyslexia, if you think you have dyslexia, or if you teach, support or work with someone who has, please come along to the event.”

Dyslexia Scotland’s National Development Officer Lena Gillies said “Every year we receive over two thousand phone calls to our Helpline from adults, students, parents, teachers and employers who have questions about dyslexia, so we’ve brought together some experts who can answer those questions in person and point people towards the help they need.”

A marketplace of organisations who support dyslexia and give information and guidance on everything from assistive technology to dyslexia-friendly books and comics will be there on the day. Talks on education and employment will run throughout the day.

Employers, educators and teachers can speak directly with the companies who have expertise on supporting dyslexic learners and employees; and dyslexic event-goers can expect to be surrounded by other dyslexic people, in what aims to be an event promoting and supporting dyslexic people. Dyslexia Scotland Helpline advisers, will be there on the day to answer questions, and stall holders want to inspire and encourage dyslexic people of all ages to reach their potential in life.

The free event is being held at The Barracks Conference Centre, Stirling’s third sector hub.

DyslexiFest runs from 10.30am – 4.00pm on Saturday 4 March at The Barracks Conference Centre, Stirling FK8 1QZ