Welcome to the Careers Issue

By Cathy Magee, Chief Executive of Dyslexia Scotland

This spring, our Careers issue of Dyslexia Voice is full of inspiration and hope.

We’re delighted that our President Sir Jackie Stewart OBE has shared his fascinating life story with our members as a special ‘Behind the Scenes’ feature. Sir Jackie clearly demonstrates that, despite his own negative experiences at school, it is possible to go on to have a successful and fulfilling career and that we should not underestimate the importance of praise and encouragement from a trusted friend in your life.

Similar messages shine out throughout this edition, such as Milqueya Collin’s powerful statement, “Dyslexic, not stupid. Dyslexic, not slow. Dyslexic, not a write off.” which she shares in her story about becoming a celebrant. Ross Linnett, CEO of ReciteMe, tells us that he “didn’t want anyone else to find themselves limited online. Without dyslexia, I truly don’t think I would have set up my own company.”

The stories in this magazine are about careers as varied as racing driving, photography, education and music, a plumbing entrepreneur and authors show that dyslexia should never be a barrier to ambition. The activities described in our changemaker section show teachers and pupils who are dispelling stereotypes and myths about dyslexia – to ensure that future generations can be confident in choosing careers they want.

I hope our younger readers will enjoy reading the case study on and in ‘Young and Dyslexic’ about Freya’s exciting acrobatics gymnastics as well as the brilliant poems, jokes and games.

For those of you seeking assessment and support in the workplace, please turn to read about the pioneering work being done by RSABI to support adults over 40 seeking assessments in the farming sector and Jean Tennant’s advice on workplace adjustments.

Dyslexia Scotland’s updates this quarter include:

• Congratulations to the 26 teachers receiving their Professional Recognition Awards in December

• In our last edition, we told you about the important research we’re encouraging all our dyslexic adult members to take part in. We’ve been overwhelmed by the number of adults wishing to share their experiences – over 1000 people have completed the survey so far. Dyslexia Scotland and the University of Glasgow are still keen for further responses to find out what living, learning and working in Scotland means for dyslexic people today. See the back cover to encourage dyslexic people to do this survey

• An important Scottish Government consultation is now under way which affects dyslexic people. Dyslexia Scotland has been involved in the Stakeholder group advising on its development. Please consider responding before the deadline on 21 April. This consultation on proposals for a Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill seeks the views of everyone, including people with dyslexia, on how the Scottish Government can do this

• Don’t miss the dates for the diary in 2024! Please also keep an eye on our Events page on the website to see what our Events team, Branches and Adult and Student Networks have planned.

Happy spring and I hope you enjoy reading this Careers issue. As always, many thanks to all those members who have contributed.