Identifying hidden disabilities

The Hidden Disabilities Questionnaire (HDQ) is a 32-item screening questionnaire that highlights features of hidden disabilities including Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and Attention Deficit Disorder. It should be emphasised that the HDQ was developed to pick up on features of different hidden disabilities – it is not a formal diagnostic procedure and is designed for people aged 14 and up. However it can be used to highlight those individuals who, without some adaptations to the programmes that they are given, are not likely to respond well; it can also identify those who may need further detailed assessment.

How It WorksIn it’s current version, the HDQ gives ‘factor scores’ which indicate the degree of difficulty in relation to 5 main areas of functioning:

1.    A general ‘Hidden Disabilities factor’.
2.    Concentration, attention and memory.
3.    Abilities and difficulties with practical tasks and motor co-ordination
4.    Calculation and maths, although these skills were also closely linked to memory.
5.    A generally positive social outlook and confident attitude.

TrainingTraining is required to administer the questionnaire and a three day training programme has been developed by Dyslexia Action which not only gives practice at interpreting, scoring and evaluating the HDQ, but also, more importantly, gives background knowledge of the hidden difficulties, how they co-exist and strategies to support individuals. It also looks at the Equality Act 2010 and barriers faced in the Workplace and/or learning environment.

If you have completed the course and would like to purchase a copy of the questionnaire then please contact our shop: trading@dyslexiaaction.org.uk tel: 01784 222337.

Who’s Using it?The Probation Service, the Prison Service, the NHS, Universities and Private Companies.

If you require any further information please click here to contact our HDQ team.