Northumbria Police has been recognised at a national awards ceremony for supporting dyslexic colleagues and creating an inclusive learning culture within the force.
The organisation was crowned most Supportive Employer at the 2022 national Dyslexia Awards on September 24.
Winners from as far afield as Scotland and the Midlands also picked up awards at the celebration evening.
The event was held at the Enginuity interactive museum in Shropshire and about 100 guests were present, with many more watching on live streams from around the country.
Judges praised the force for creating a learning culture where dyslexics were able to ‘shine and excel’ and the organisation was highlighted as a role model for other forces across the UK.
They said: “As a large organisation, Northumbria Police have welcomed dyslexics and embraced them, trained them and cared for them.
“Through a great structure and with kindness and support they have taken these people to the next level.
“Police officers receiving support are very grateful and are thriving and this has created a positive culture – one where they are able to shine and excel.
“The organisation deserves this recognition for its hard work – it is making a massive difference to people’s lives.”
Awards founder Elizabeth Wilkinson MBE said the celebration event was a huge success. She said: “All nine awards were open to nominations from right across the UK, and the judges were humbled with the quality of entries in all sections.
“It is fabulous to hear so many stories of dyslexic people putting their stamp on the world, as well as the heart-warming stories of the tutors, teachers and support staff who believe in them and empower them to succeed.
“Dyslexics can and do achieve amazing things, and I am delighted that Northumbria Police has been recognised by the judges for the difference it is making.”
Receiving the award on behalf of Northumbria Police, Sue Hadden and Kelly Rooks said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive this acknowledgement on behalf of the force.
“We have worked incredibly hard over the years to ensure we have developed structured support pathways for dyslexic employees to ensure they can progress their careers and we are proud of what we have achieved.”
The Dyslexia Awards showcase the diverse skills and strengths of dyslexics and recognise Employers and educators who recognise, nurture and encourage success.
Awards were presented in nine categories and the winners were:
- Learning Support Award: Tina Birring from Birmingham City University
- Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) Award: Samantha Jones from City of Wolverhampton College in the West Midlands
- Exceptional Educator Award: Katie Frimston from Roseheath College, Cheshire
- Amazing Artist Award: Rossie Stone, creator of Dekko Comics based in Glasgow, Scotland
- Entrepreneur Award: Clive Knowles, founder of the British Ironwork Centre in Shropshire
- Community Shining Star Award (20plus): Texas Bishop from Redditch, Worcestershire
- Community Shining Star Award (aged 13-19): Morgan Jones from Shropshire
- Innovation Award: Simon Washbrook, founder of Birmingham-based CRM Popcorn
- Supportive Employer Award: Northumbria Police
Eli, who is dyslexic, has run The Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant business since 2007 and has worked in the field of dyslexia for 22 years. She was awarded an MBE for her services to dyslexic people in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
She is committed to showcasing the commitment and inspiration of educators, marking the achievements of dyslexic individuals and celebrating diversity in the workplace to bring about positive changes in society.
