Dyslexia Assessment & Support in Kent

Written By Stephanie Connolly

Evidence-Based, SASC-Aligned Assessments for Children and Adults

If you’re looking for a dyslexia assessment in Kent, for your child or yourself—you’re not alone.

Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences in the UK, yet many individuals remain unidentified or misunderstood, often struggling without the right support in school, university, or the workplace.

At Lycali, we provide evidence-based dyslexia assessments and support for children, young people and adults across Kent and nationwide (online)—aligned with recognised UK guidance.

What is dyslexia?

Dyslexia is a specific learning difficulty (SpLD) that primarily affects:

  • Reading accuracy and fluency

  • Spelling

  • Written expression

It is also associated with differences in:

  • Phonological processing

  • Working memory

  • Processing speed

Importantly:
Dyslexia is not related to intelligence
It is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference

This understanding is consistent with guidance from the British Dyslexia Association, which recognises dyslexia as a continuum of difficulties, varying from person to person.

How common is dyslexia in the UK?

  • Around 10% of the UK population are estimated to be dyslexic

  • Approximately 4% experience more significant difficulties

  • This equates to millions of children and adults across the UK

  • In most classrooms, 2–3 children may be dyslexic

Research suggests prevalence may be higher depending on criteria, highlighting the importance of accurate identification and assessment.

Signs of dyslexia in children

You may wish to explore an assessment if your child:

  • Finds phonics and early reading difficult

  • Reads slowly or avoids reading

  • Has persistent spelling difficulties

  • Struggles to follow instructions or retain information

  • Shows stronger verbal than written skills

Many children with dyslexia are:
✨ Curious, capable, and creative, but may not be progressing as expected in literacy-based tasks

Signs of dyslexia in adults

Dyslexia is often identified later in life.

Common indicators include:

  • Slow reading speed

  • Difficulty with spelling or written communication

  • Challenges with organisation and time management

  • Needing extra time to process written information

Many adults seek assessment when:

  • Entering higher education

  • Experiencing challenges at work

  • Supporting their own child and recognising similar traits

Why a formal dyslexia assessment is important

A comprehensive assessment provides:

✔ A clear understanding of strengths and differences
✔ A structured profile based on standardised assessment data
✔ Evidence to support reasonable adjustments (education/workplace)
✔ Practical recommendations for support and next steps

At Lycali, our assessments are aligned with:

  • SpLD Assessment Standards Committee guidance

  • British Dyslexia Association best practice

  • Expectations linked to assessors holding an Assessment Practising Certificate

What does a dyslexia assessment involve?

In line with UK guidance, a dyslexia assessment should:

  • Be completed by a qualified specialist assessor (typically Level 7 with APC)

  • Use standardised, norm-referenced assessments

  • Explore:

    • Attainment (reading, spelling, writing)

    • Cognitive processing (e.g. memory, speed)

    • Phonological skills

  • Include a detailed developmental history

  • Consider the functional impact across education or daily life

Assessment is not based on a single score—it involves identifying a pattern of strengths and needs, consistent with SASC principles and broader Delphi-informed consensus approaches to dyslexia identification.

Dyslexia across the lifespan

Dyslexia presents differently at each stage:

Children

  • Early literacy difficulties

  • Frustration with reading/writing

  • Increased reliance on verbal skills

Adolescents

  • Slower reading speed

  • Difficulty with written assignments

  • Organisation challenges

Adults

  • Workplace challenges (emails, reports, admin tasks)

  • Cognitive fatigue with reading/writing

  • Strong verbal reasoning and problem-solving skills

Dyslexia support after assessment

Assessment should lead to meaningful, practical support.

At Lycali, we offer structured post-diagnostic support, including:

  • Psychoeducation (understanding dyslexia)

  • Strategy-based support for school, university or work

  • Confidence and self-advocacy development

  • Parent and family support

Our approach is neuro-affirming and individualised, recognising that no two profiles are the same.

Dyslexia assessment in Kent and nationwide

We support:

  • Children (7+)

  • Young people

  • Adults

  • Families and professionals

When should you seek an assessment?

Consider an assessment if:

  • Progress is not in line with expectations

  • Difficulties are persistent despite support

  • There is a noticeable gap between verbal ability and written work

  • You are seeking clarity for education or workplace support

Start with a screening questionnaire

If you’re unsure, a screening can help guide next steps.

Complete our short dyslexia screening questionnaire to explore whether a full assessment may be appropriate.

Stephanie Connolly
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