Patoss, the UK’s largest professional association for specialist teachers and professionals supporting learners with specific learning difficulties (SpLDs), has officially achieved charity status. This milestone, effective as of October 1st, 2025, marks a significant step in Patoss’ mission to empower educators, raise awareness, and improve outcomes for individuals with SpLDs, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia/DCD, dyscalculia, and ADHD.
Retaining its full name, the association is now also known as Patoss Dyslexia Charity. This new status not only strengthens Patoss’ commitment to supporting professionals who make a difference in the lives of learners with SpLDs, but also allows for a broader impact, reaching more individuals in need of high-quality support.
Lesley Browne, CEO of Patoss, expressed her excitement for this achievement, stating, “Becoming a charity allows us to expand our reach, deepen our impact, and ensure that high-quality support is accessible to all who need it.”
Lynn Greenwold OBE, Patoss Advisor on Policy and Educational Development and Chair of SASC (SpLD Assessment Standards Committee), added, “I am proud to see Patoss recognized as a charity. We have always worked in the public interest, and our new status underlines that. We hope this will enable us to do even more to help people with Specific Learning Difficulties (SpLD) succeed in their education and workplace by nourishing the professionals who teach, assess, and support them.”
One Patoss member, Holly, shared the benefits of being a member, stating, “Being a Patoss member has been incredibly beneficial for my professional development as a tutor and assessor. The wide range of professional support available has significantly enhanced the support I can offer to students and adult learners.”
As a charity, Patoss will continue to offer expert-led accredited training and CPD, mentoring, policy guidance, and practical resources, while also increasing its advocacy and outreach efforts across education and workplace settings. This transition also opens new opportunities for collaboration, funding, and community engagement, enabling Patoss to further its vision of a more inclusive society where every learner can thrive.
Founded over 30 years ago, Patoss is the UK’s largest professional membership body dedicated to supporting those who work with learners with SpLDs. Its members include specialist teachers, assessors, SENCOs, tutors, lecturers, and other professionals across education and employment sectors.
For further information, interviews, or media enquiries, please contact Patoss Dyslexia Charity at info@patoss-dyslexia.org or 01386 257808. More information can also be found at www.patoss-dyslexia.org.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.