By booking an assessment, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions and the associated Privacy Policy.

1. Nature and Scope of the Assessment

Assessments are educational in nature and are designed to identify strengths and difficulties associated with literacy and related learning needs. Essex Dyslexia’s assessments involve:

• Standardised psychometric tests;
• Professional observations;
• Background information provided by parents/carers and, where applicable, schools.

The assessor holds a valid APC and diagnostic reports comply with SASC guidelines (www.sasc.org.uk).
The assessment reflects performance on the day(s) of testing and the information available at that time. The assessment:

• Does not guarantee a diagnosis of dyslexia;
• Is not a medical or clinical diagnosis;
• Does not guarantee eligibility for exam access arrangements, an EHCP, or additional funding;
• Does not override decisions made by schools, examination centres, awarding bodies, or local authorities.

The diagnostic decision of the assessor is final.

2. Eligibility and Consent

At Essex Dyslexia, assessments are available for children aged between 8 and 17 years.

Written consent must be provided by a parent or legal guardian prior to the assessment. Where appropriate, and over the age of 13, the child’s consent will also be sought.

By booking an assessment, you confirm that:

• All information provided is accurate, detailed and complete;
• You have permission to share any school or professional documentation supplied;
• You understand the purpose and limitations of the assessment.

3. Booking and Payment

Fees are confirmed at the time of booking

A £120 deposit is required at the time of booking. This deposit is non-refundable as work will be initiated upon receipt.

Full payment and background information are required 7 days in advance of the assessment. Essex Dyslexia reserves the right to postpone the assessment if payment and background information are not received; the background information is vital for planning which tests will be selected for the assessment.

4. Cancellations and Rescheduling

A minimum of 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule.

Late cancellations or non-attendance may result in the full fee being charged.

Discretion may be applied in exceptional circumstances, such as illness.

If the assessment is cancelled by the assessor, an alternative date will be offered or a full refund provided.

5. Assessment Conditions

Assessments require:

• A quiet, suitable testing environment as close to normal working conditions as possible, Therefore, any equipment the learner would normally use should be brought to the assessment - e.g. overlays, glasses, hearing aids, fiddle toy, etc.;
• The learner to be well enough to engage meaningfully;
• Minimal interruptions.

If an assessment cannot be completed due to illness, fatigue, or disruption, a further session may be required and may incur an additional charge.

The assessment may be recorded to enable the assessor to review the assessment while writing the follow-up report. Any recordings will be deleted once the report has been finalised.

6. Reports and Timescales

Reports are usually provided within 10–15 working days.

Reports are supplied securely as a PDF and will be stored electronically by Essex Dyslexia for 7 years after the learner’s 18th birthday. All other paperwork, including questionnaires, test papers and personal data will be deleted or destroyed once the final report has been delivered.

Minor amendments to background information can be requested up to 30 days after the report has been received.

7. Use of Reports

Assessment reports:

• Are prepared for the named individual only.
• Must not be altered, edited, summarised or selectively quoted out of context.
• May be shared with schools or professionals only with parental consent.

8. Data Protection and Confidentiality

All personal data is processed in accordance with UK GDPR. Data is processed on the lawful bases of:

• Consent
• Contractual necessity to deliver services
• Legal obligation, including safeguarding

Assessment records are retained in line with professional and insurance guidance as detailed in the Privacy Policy.

Confidentiality will only be breached where there is a legal or safeguarding obligation to do so.

9. Complaints Procedure

Concerns should be raised in writing and will be addressed promptly and professionally.
Data protection concerns may also be raised with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), as outlined in the Privacy Policy.

10. Acceptance of Terms

By booking an assessment, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions and the associated Privacy Policy.