Irlen syndrome is a perceptual problem which affects 12% of the general population, 55% of dyslexics, and a high proportion of ADHD sufferers as well as autistics.

We are a very small charity aiming to raise awareness of this syndrome that was discovered in the 1980's but is not very well known. The charity was started in Dartford by the parents of a girl, who, after many years of searching found out what their daughters problem was.
Trained screeners can screen for Irlen syndrome. With the use of overlays, reading can be greatly improved. In many cases when there are also perceptual distortions such as difficulty catching a ball, judging distances, difficulty with stairs and heights etc., the precision filters worn as glasses can put everything into perspective.

When a diagnosis of I.S is made, further assessment is required to determine the exact colour for the most benefit. People with Irlen syndrome suffer many symptoms including words moving on the page, flashing on the paper, headaches, migraines, sore eyes, short reading time etc.

Janet Thornton is the only qualified screener at present in Folkestone.

You can read more about Irlen Syndrome on the I.S. Website at:
www.readingby.colour.btinternet.co.uk

Contact details:
Janet Thornton
85 Joyes Road,
Folkestone, Kent.
CT19 6HL
Tel: 01303 255550
e-mail: janet-thornton@gmx.net

Secretaries:
Jackie & Steve Barnett
195 Chastilian Road,
Dartford,
Kent.
DA1 3LW
e-mail: ReadingBy.Colour@btinternet.com

Kent Trust
Registered Charity No 1052067

Related Links:
http://www.irlen.com
Irlen Centre USA

http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/DonRiley/
Irlen Centres UK - Basic information on Syndrome