Patrons

Our Patrons

Benjamin Zephaniah

patron quote

These are the words of Benjamin Zephaniah, who alongside being a hugely successful novelist and playwright, is 1 of Britain’s most celebrated poets and is in The Times list of the top 50 post-war writers.


One of our previous students, Alisha, on being presented with our Jack Petchy Award asked for the prize to be spent on inviting Benjamin to come and give a talk. Amazingly, he made time in his busy life, visiting us at Walthamstow School for Girls where he held a packed audience entranced. Benjamin spoke movingly of his own admiration for Mohammad Ali (a fellow dyslexic). He recalls ‘The first time someone told me I was dyslexic; it was like they were swearing at me. I had never heard the word before. It made me a very angry person.’

Subsequently Benjamin has generously agreed to be our Patron and stated that ‘Many young people have a lot of respect for you, and you have a great understanding of them. This I believe is what has to happen if you are to make a difference’.

Professor David McLoughlin Ph.D., AFBPsS, C.Psychol

Dr D McloughlinDavid is a registered Educational and Occupational Psychologist who provides diagnostic assessments to dyslexic people of all ages, including children. He also provides career guidance for adolescents and adults. David is a visiting professor in Psychology at the University of Buckingham, and has acted as an advisor to schools, colleges and employers. David is a regular contributor to national and international dyslexia conferences and publications. He is the principal author of three books on dyslexia in the adult years, the most recent being The Dyslexic Adult: Interventions and Outcomes. An evidence-based Approach. (BPS Blackwell, 2013).

David attended our 2013 AGM and gave an insightful talk on ‘Understanding and Managing Dyslexia’ and subsequently has generously agreed to be our patron.
What is a Patron?

A patron is not a trustee and you will not be expected to be responsible for the management of the WFDA and you will not have any of the legal responsibilities of the trustees. Instead your purpose is to lend your credibility, profile and support to the organisation.

What do we ask of you as a Patron?

Patrons can support us by donating an amount suitable for them and we hope some will do so BUT you do not have to offer financing. Patrons can also help by:

  • Being interviewed in the media
  • Generating media coverage
  • Hosting or attending fundraising or other events
  • Raising funds by encouraging contributions and sponsorship
  • Contributing to the public image of the WFDA
  • Attracting new supporters.
  • Provide practical help
  • Share your professional expertise.

What can you expect as a Patron?

  • Acknowledgement of your support in our literature and on our website
  • Priority notification for all events, social occasions.
  • Regular updates and newsletters throughout the year
  • A sense of satisfaction in being involved in a charity that is trying to improve the lives of local families.

How do you become a Patron?

Email us on admin@wfda.org.uk to find out more about becoming a Patron.