The Hidden Disabilities Questionnaire (HDQ)

The HDQ is a 32-item questionnaire which has been shown to highlight features of hidden disabilities including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Attention Deficit Disorder

It should be emphasised that the HDQ was developed to pick up on features of different hidden disabilities – it is not a formal diagnostic procedure, but it can be used to highlight those individuals who, without some adaptations to the programmes that they are given, are not likely to respond well; it can also identify those who may need further detailed assessment. 

A three day training programme has been developed by Dyslexia Action which not only gives practice at interpreting, scoring and evaluating the HDQ, but also, more importantly, gives a background knowledge of the hidden difficulties, and how they co-exist. It also looks in depth at support strategies and barriers faced in the workplace and/or learning environment. The 3 day training and 10 practice HDQ’s have to be completed before anyone can use the HDQ.

Hidden Disabilities Training Delivered by Dyslexia Action

Day 1 - This day will give an overview of Dyslexia and Dyspraxia and highlights practical support strategies.

The Disability Discrimination Act will also be focused on and how this relates to hidden difficulties.

Day 2 - Half a day will be spent giving an overview of Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit (Hyperactive) Disorder (ADD/ADHD).

The afternoon will be spent looking at the incidence of co-existence, the issues that may arise due to this, and the barriers to accessing work because of these hidden difficulties.

Time will also be spent looking at practical resources.

Day 3 - Focuses on developing an understanding of screening and assessment and learning how to administer, score and evaluate the Hidden Disabilities Questionnaire.

Days 1 and 2 – have been developed to support a whole organisation to increase awareness of the nature of hidden disabilities and the practical steps that can be taken so that the difficulties experienced by people are not a barrier to participation in learning or to employment.

Day 3 - is only for those within the organisation who have the skills required to administer and interpret the HDQ

Contact Information

For more information contact Sara Christie, HDQ Manager at

schristie@dyslexiaaction.org.uk or hqg@dyslexiaaction.org.uk