Dyslexic Train Drivers?

[Juliet Barvo]

If you're Dyslexic, is there anypoint applying to become a Train Driver?

Of course, when it takes yu twice as long to read words, then you're always going to be at a competative disadvantage when it comes to the Tests; but do they actually allow Dyslexic Train Drivers?

 

[ExMover]

I wouldn't have thought being Dislexic would specifically be a block to becoming a driver and from what I can recall, most of the tests are verbally briefed and don't require much writing.

You may, however, find the course challenging as that definitely involves a lot of reading and writing both in the classroom and at home. I would compare the workload to an A level in 3 months with a 9 or so hr exam at the end of it (at least that's what it was like with EMT). That said, allowance was made for anyone whose writing wasn't their strong point by giving them more time in the exam.

You can be sure however, that your day to day duties as a driver will definitely require you to be able to read and understand instructions clearly and unambiguously as a matter of safety.

If you're already in a good job then think long and hard about moving across, but if you feel that you could go back easily enough and therefore have nothing to lose, then give it a try. You may find you're a natural, but if you struggle, what you can be sure of is that the training system will stop you at some point, long before you are 'let loose' on your own.

 

[Worldwide]

Would they not have to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate you.

I did some online tests recently and at the bottom of the email it said:

If you believe that you may require any adjustments due to a disability, please let us know by contacting us at hr@northernrail.org prior to accessing the online assessment.

 

[ComUtoR]

Reasonable adjustments are made. 25% additional time should be allowed on some tests. Guidance notes have been provided to the TOCs.

 

[Stigy]

Would they not have to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate you.

I did some online tests recently and at the bottom of the email it said:

If you believe that you may require any adjustments due to a disability, please let us know by contacting us at hr@northernrail.org prior to accessing the online assessment.

Yes, companies have to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate you. I believe the Equality Act 2010 takes this in to account. One may have to prove this though, by way of an official diagnosis.

 

[DarloRich]

If you're Dyslexic, is there anypoint applying to become a Train Driver?

Yes, companies have to make reasonable adjustments to accommodate you. I believe the Equality Act 2010 takes this in to account. One may have to prove this though, by way of an official diagnosis.

Correct. For instance at exams you should be given more time.

 

[Dieseldriver]

I'm certain I have read a piece in the Aslef rag about drivers with dyslexia.
They would accommodate you at the assessment centre.
As has been said, it could create challenges on the training course but I would have thought they would be able to be overcome.
As a train driver you would need to read safety critical notices/forms as well as write out reports/fill out forms during the course of your duty. Also, you would need to be able to read your schedule card throughout your working day.
I wouldn't say it was a bar to becoming a driver though, more a challenge that can be overcome.
Best of luck

 

[MostlyHarmless]

My understanding of dyslexia is it varies from person to person in how it affects them and to what degree, so you will know where your difficulties lie and how they might be a problem in the role of a train driver. If it is of any help I personally know of a couple of police officers that are dyslexic and while some things (statement writing for example) can take a little longer it doesn't stop them doing their job and being good coppers

Best of luck

 

[fabs]

Don’t know if I can add much to the above. Except that our company has more than one driver with dyslexia.
It can be challenging but with the right level of support and the right attitude from the driver the condition is no bar to a successful driving career. For instance, among other things, rules assessments are tailored (they still must have the requisite knowledge) and if we need a drivers report when we will help complete it etc.

 

[Juliet Barvo]

If I manage t get hold of my Dyslexia Test report from College, do you think GTR would scrap the Test results they have on me and allow me to reapply before the 6 month [Test results validity] is up??



Do you read slowly? Yes
Did you have trouble learning how to read when you were in school? Yes
Do you often have to read something two or three times before it makes sense? Yes
Are you uncomfortable reading out loud? Yes
Do you omit, transpose, or add letters when you are reading or writing? Yes
Do you find you still have spelling mistakes in your writing even after Spell Check? Yes
Do you find it difficult to pronounce uncommon multi-syllable words when you are reading? Yes
Do you choose to read magazines or short articles rather than longer books and novels? Yes
When you were in school, did you find it extremely difficult to learn a foreign language? Yes
Do you avoid work projects or courses that require extensive reading? Yes
How easy do you find it to recite the alphabet? Hard.

 

[ComUtoR]

I would get a medical certificate or some form of Doctors note and ensure that any prospective employer is aware. YOu should have declared it previously as they will make allowances. If you did not declare it then it would look bad on your application as it may appear you were hiding it from the TOC.