Gregory's Story — 12 Nov 2009

Gregory is married with two children and works for a Local Authority.  He had difficulty with reading and writing and realised this was affecting his family and working life. His sons started school and he felt bad that he was not able to help with their homework. His employer recognised his progress and was considering Gregory for promotion. However, both Gregory and his manager understood that Gregory's literacy issues might affect his chances of a promotion. With the backing of his employer, who gave him time off, Gregory joined a literacies class at John Wheatley College in November 2008.

Gregory attends individual and group learning 3 hours a week. A variety of activities and resources designed for dyslexic adults are used. Activities are linked to his interests which are boxing, golf and fishing. Gregory is motivated and continues with his learning at home with support from his wife.

The impact on Gregory's life has been tremendous. He has been promoted, feels much happier, and is now more able to help his sons with their homework. He reads with more confidence things that he would never have attempted before.

He is more confident, and following a car accident a couple of years ago when one of his sons slipped out of his seat belt, is now in negotiations with a leading car manufacturer about a safety device he has patented for child seatbelts.