A diagnostic radiography top-up degree apprentice has been invited as a special guest to the National Dyslexia Conference for her innovative research.
Kes Sinfield is a qualified assistant practitioner working in the field of medical imaging who has been progressing her existing qualification to a full BSc Honours Degree in Diagnostic Radiography.
As part of a module on patient care and experience, Kes has been researching how traditional appointment letters to patients can present barriers for patients with dyslexia – a topic that caught the attention of the National Dyslexia Conference.
Improving accessibility and inclusivity
After sharing her ideas with the National Dyslexia Association, Kes was invited to attend the conference and present their research while networking with leading voices in accessibility.
Her presentation included visual elements and a video demonstrating the contrast between standard letter formats and dyslexia-friendly alternatives. She also included samples of how traditional appointment letters can look to patients with dyslexia (below).
Since then, she has been invited to discuss her ideas at the Dyslexia AGM, and been in contact with the team at Alliance Healthcare to try and make patient letters more accessible.
Kes said: “It’s safe to say that I had the most incredible day meeting so many other individuals who are just as keen to try and improve accessibility and inclusivity. Whilst meeting new people is always daunting and a little bit overwhelming, it was an incredible opportunity to network which will hopefully lead to some exciting opportunities in the near future.”
'Testament to the power of student research'
Kes’s module leader, Kimberley Bradshaw, praised their initiative and engagement.
She said: “I am thrilled that Kes was offered this opportunity. Research underpins everything we do as healthcare professionals, and it is wonderful to see our students getting involved with events like this.
“Kes’s work is a reminder that radiography is not just about technical skill — it’s about communication, empathy and ensuring every patient feels seen and understood. Their contribution to the conversation around dyslexia-friendly healthcare materials is a testament to the power of student research to drive real-world change. Well done, Kes.”
Find out more about the University of Cumbria’s Diagnostic Radiography Degree Apprenticeship programme, which recently won Best Healthcare Apprenticeship, online here.
Find out more about the Dyslexia AGM here.
(Image: Kes Sinfield at the National Dyslexia Conference)