PARENTS and carers of children with dyslexia are invited to a free conference being held by Worcestershire County Council next month.

The council's Parent Partnership Service (PPS) is holding a dyslexia conference at Perdiswell Young People's Leisure Centre, Bilford Road, Worcester, on Friday, March 9.

People are invited to either the morning session, which will take place from 9.30am until 12.30pm, or the afternoon session, which will run from 1pm until 4pm.

The event will involve a presentation from keynote speaker Victoria Crivelli, a specialist teacher in the council's learning support team and vice chairman of the British Dyslexia Association New Technologies Committee.

Crossbow Educational Games, the creators and suppliers of a wealth of specialised dyslexia teaching resources, will also be playing a part in the conference, which will feature a question-and-answer session.

Victoria Crivelli said: "Many children with dyslexia have great abilities. Dyslexia is often described as a hidden difficulty so early identification, understanding and support is vital.

"Parents can play a key role in helping their children realise their potential and maximise their abilities and help them find strategies to overcome some of their barriers to learning. Without support, it can often lead to a lack of confidence and a lifetime of difficulties."

The PPS offers support and information to parents and carers of children with special educational needs and/or school-based issues.

The conference is free but people are advised to book beforehand. Those wanting to book or find out more should call the PPS on 01905 727940.