The HDQ is a 32-item screening questionnaire that highlights features of hidden disabilities including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Attention Deficit Disorder designed for use with people aged 14 and over.
The HDQ is not a formal diagnostic procedure but it can be used to highlight individuals who, without some adaptations to their workplace or programme of study, may perform below their potential. It can also identify individuals who may need further detailed assessment.
How the HDQ Works
The HDQ gives ‘factor scores’ which indicate the degree of difficulty in relation to 5 main areas of functioning:
- General ‘Hidden Disabilities factor’
- Concentration, attention and memory
- Abilities and difficulties with practical tasks and motor co-ordination
- Calculation and maths, although these skills were also closely linked to memory
- A generally positive social outlook and confident attitude
See the Quick Facts box for details of Venue, Dates and Fees
Training Day 1
This day will give an overview of Dyslexia and Dyspraxia and highlights practical support strategies.
The Equality Act 2010 (formerly the Disability Discrimination Act) and how it relates to hidden difficulties will also be covered.
Training 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 how hidden disabilities co-exist, 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.
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.
Training Day 3
Focuses on developing an understanding of screening and assessment and learning how to administer, score and evaluate the Hidden Disabilities Questionnaire.
Day 3 - is only for those within the organisation who have the skills required to administer and interpret the HDQ
Quality Control
Following the training on Day 3, attendees will be asked to practise the HDQ using friends/family and colleagues to help complete 10 questionnaires. These will be sent to Dyslexia Action who will then evaluate their competence at scoring and making recommendations from the HDQ. A Certificate of Competence will be forwarded to the attendee and they are then able to use the HDQ as a screening tool.
Part-course registration
Candidates with existing specialist qualifications can register for Day 3 only. Proof of qualifications will be required.
Who’s using the HDQ?
The Probation Service, the Prison Service, the NHS, the Fire and Rescue Service, Universities and Private Companies. If you would liike to book a group of people from your organisation to increase awareness of hidden disabilities please email hdq@dyslexiaaction.org.uk tel: 01482 329416
Find out more by watching this introduction to the programme by its main developer Dr John Rack.
Please read the terms and conditions.
Contact hdq@dyslexiaaction.org.uk or 01482 329416 for all queries