Dyscalculia is a learning difficulty which affects people’s ability to understand numbers and therefore they may experience difficulties with maths. For some, this might affect how they see numbers; others may find reading symbols difficult or might find using finance and numbers in everyday life a challenge.  There is a connection to dyslexia.

Around 5% of people in the UK have dyscalculia, sometimes alongside other learning difficulties. Having dyscalculia does not mean someone will have low intellectual ability.

Strengths and Talents	Other traits:	Misconceptions:
Creativity and artistic talent	Find it difficult to do mathematical equations or to retain numerical information	I have blue lenses in my glasses to assist me with processing of information and reduce the impact of light stress. Staff and patients often ask why I'm wearing sunglasses. I also have to explain why I need the lights dimming.
Strong strategic thinking	Have a lack of confidence with numbers / dealing with finances	Trying to make us improve in areas of weakness can be hugely stressful and damaging to confidence
A love of words, often with excellent spelling and grammar	Find it difficult to give or follow directions – but can walk with someone to the right place	Just dyslexia with numbers
Intuitive thinking	Keep track of time	We just need to go back to school
Great organisational skills		Dyscalculia doesn’t just affect our ability to do maths on paper; it also affects being able to retain numerical information, reading timetables, making appointments or following direction