A service evaluation to investigate how dyslexia is supported in police work

Research regarding dyslexia and the workplace (McCusker, 2014; Rosenfeld 1979; Doyle 2014) have discussed the difficulties of the ‘hidden disability’ and disclosure. This is a small scale study focused on the Surrey and Sussex police forces to assist police services and other work place providers establish good practice guidance for supporting dyslexia among employees. A survey was circulated electronically across two groups of police officers (16 line managers and 16 officers with diagnosis of dyslexia, N=32). The views of dyslexia in the police role have been identified, with the strengths, weaknesses, impact on peers and line management reviewed and clarification of ideas for strategies to support officers. There are clear differences of opinion between the two groups regarding the strengths of dyslexia, with many line managers struggling to perceive the benefits, where many officers agree on traits which identify resilience, problem solving and interpersonal skills. The interventions identified focus on the technological aids, adjustments to materials, time scales and funding with both groups noting early identification as key. The line managers request for more information on dyslexia to assist them in their role with realistic expectations from the organisation. These findings echo previous research regarding line managements support (e.g. Vegchel, Jong, Bosma, and Schaufel,2005; and Huo, Boxall & Cheung, 2018) that emphasises trusting relationship as a foundation to wellbeing and health.