Dyslexia Awareness, Information and Support Initiative

A dyslexic child and a best-selling author came together at the second birthday party of the Dyslexia Awareness, Information and Support Initiative (DAISI Project) on Tuesday 13th April.
The event took place at the Dyslexia Drop-in Centre at 19a Kenwyn Street in Truro. It was well-attended by project staff, grateful clients and professionals from other organisations.

The guests of honour were Jack Holt. Aged 9, from Truro, who was the winner of a Dell laptop, the prize in a free draw for clients and members of Cornwall Dyslexia Association. The computer came equipped with an Assistive Technology software package, Read and Write Gold, which was donated by Text Help. The software reads text aloud and helps with many areas of literacy. It can be life-changing for dyslexic users like Jack, often making the written word truly accessible for the first time.
The laptop was presented to Jack by best-selling author Patrick Gale, who lives in Cornwall. Patrick signed copies of his various novels for those present.
Lee Evans, from iansyst, a company that helps disabled people to make the most of their abilities through assistive technology and software,  was on hand to demonstrate Read and Write and other assistive aids and software.
The DAISI Project provides support, advice and guidance, free screenings and assessments to adults and young people throughout Cornwall, and Dyslexia Awareness Training to local organisations. Cornwall Dyslexia Association also offers a free helpline and free courses for parents, teaching staff and others interested in dyslexia. New courses will start in Hayle and Falmouth on 27th April and Wadebridge and Truro from 7th June. For more information go to www.cornwalldyslexia.org.uk or telephone 01872 274 827.