Living and Working with Dyslexia

By Hannah Bradford

In this blog, Hannah Bradford, Job Coach at Petty Pool, shares her personal experience of living with dyslexia, how it affects her working life, and why inclusive workplaces matter more than ever.

Living and working with dyslexia means approaching tasks a little differently. For me, it often takes more time to process written information and produce written work, especially when juggling multiple demands or working to tight deadlines.

This can sometimes be challenging, but it’s also helped shape the way I work, think, and support others.

But here’s the truth: it’s not just a challenge. It’s also a strength.

Turning Challenges into Advantages

Because I need to go through things slowly, I’ve developed a real eye for detail. I often catch errors that others might miss, whether I’m reviewing my own work or supporting colleagues.

Dyslexia has made me more empathetic, too, especially in education settings, where I’ve worked closely with others facing similar challenges. I get it.

And I’ve loved being able to share the strategies that helped me through school — the little tools in my “dyslexia toolkit” — with others who benefit from them just like I did.

The Power of Support at Work

“I feel incredibly lucky to be in a workplace that understands me. (…) That kind of support doesn’t just help me do my job better, it shows me I’m valued. It reminds me I belong.” –

Hannah Bradford, Job Coach at Petty Pool

I feel incredibly lucky to be in a workplace that understands me. My employer gives me the time I need to process materials and helps me access useful tools, like Grammarly, which I now use on my phone.

The IT team also explored software options that make tasks easier for me. That kind of support doesn’t just help me do my job better, it shows me I’m valued. It reminds me I belong.

I still rely on strategies I learned in school, and new ones I’ve picked up over time. But none of it would matter without the patience and empathy of my team.

A Message to Employers: Small Changes, Big Impact

If you have neurodivergent people in your team, and chances are you do, my advice is simple: talk to them.

Ask what they need. Listen. Be open to adjusting how you work together.

Your support can make all the difference, and it often doesn’t require much, just kindness, curiosity and a willingness to adapt.

Join the Conversation at Our Neuro-Inclusion Summit

This is exactly what we’ll be exploring at the upcoming Neuro-Inclusion Summit — how we can build truly inclusive workplaces that celebrate neurodiversity.

Whether you’re an employer, educator or just someone who wants to learn more, you’ll leave with real insights, practical tools, and a fresh perspective.

Come along, be inspired, and let’s change the workplace together!

Book your tickets now – Neuro-inclusion Summit 2025 – Petty Pool