M·E·L Research attends the launch of the British Dyslexia Association’s new report at Parliament
Earlier this week, M·E·L Research’s Tamsin Maries and Elliot Simmonds were invited to the Houses of Parliament by the British Dyslexia Association (BDA) to attend the launch of their new report, Set up for somebody else. The report highlights the urgent need for improved support for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and dyslexia across the education system.
Elliot and Tamsin outside the Houses of Parliament
Our recent research, led by Tamsin Maries on behalf of the BDA, directly informed the findings of this report. We are delighted to see M·E·L Research credited throughout the publication and proud to have contributed to evidence that strengthens the case for a national strategy for dyslexia. This strategy aims to ensure earlier identification and more consistent, high-quality support for children in schools nationwide.
Reflections from the event
Reflecting on the event, Tamsin said:
“It was an honour to be invited by the British Dyslexia Association to attend the launch of their report Set up for somebody else in Parliament yesterday evening. I fully support their call for a national strategy for dyslexia, to enable earlier identification and better and more consistent support in schools.
The event was attended by Georgia Gould, Minister of State for School Standards, alongside many MPs and business leaders, and was supported by Ryman and Theo Paphitis.
As researchers, we do not always get to see how our analysis is used or the impact it can have, so it was a real privilege to be a part of the event and to see the research come to life.”
Tamsin also highlighted several standout moments from the evening:
The incredible young people with dyslexia who spoke so eloquently, passionately and confidently to a room full of MPs
The reminder of how much difference can be made by individuals who truly care about change
The powerful evidence of how early identification and appropriate support can transform young lives
The inspiring leadership of Ellen Broome, CEO of the British Dyslexia Association, in driving this campaign and holding decision-makers to account
Meeting BDA colleagues Ellen Broome and Helen Goodsall in person after months of collaboration
The privilege of experiencing the breathtaking setting of the Houses of Parliament
And, of course, the sight and sound of Big Ben lit up and chiming across Westminster
“I want to thank every single young person and parent who took part in this research,” Tamsin added. “Please know that you have been heard, and that the British Dyslexia Association are doing incredible work to drive meaningful change.”
Elliot’s reflections
Elliot also shared his thoughts following the event:
“It was a really fantastic experience to be invited to Westminster by the British Dyslexia Association – thank you to Ellen Broome and Helen Goodsall for the invitation.
My colleague Tamsin Maries led this project and put her heart and soul into it, and our Data Team, led by Michael Deeming, did some wizardry to make the findings as accessible and impactful as possible. It is a real privilege to work with such passionate and talented people.
However, the true stars of the show were the young people who stood in front of hundreds of business leaders, parents, trustees, MPs, Ministers and members of the APPG on Dyslexia, and told their stories. I could not have done that at 15 – you were all absolutely fantastic.”
Continuing the conversation
M·E·L Research is proud to have supported the British Dyslexia Association in this vital work. The Set up for somebody else report shines a light on the lived experiences of young people with dyslexia and SEND, underscoring the need for reform to ensure all children can reach their full potential in education.
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Get in touch with the M·E·L Research team today via our ‘Get in touch’ form below to see how our expert researchers can support your goals. Alternatively, you can email the team at info@melresearch.co.uk.
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