Dyspraxia study reveals urgent need for diagnosis and support in UK schools
Thousands of children miss out on vital help
A major new report has revealed that children with dyspraxia, or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), face long delays, poor recognition and limited support across the UK. The condition affects more than 5% of children—around two pupils in every class—yet many struggle without a diagnosis or appropriate help.
The Impact of Developmental Coordination Disorder in the UK report comes from York St John University and Oxford Brookes University, alongside partners including the University of Surrey, Cardiff University and Manchester Metropolitan University. With insights from over 240 parents, this is the UK’s largest ever study into the lived experience of dyspraxia.
Families report long waits, confusion and distress. Children face difficulties not only with coordination, but also with mental health, self-esteem, friendships and schoolwork. One parent shared, “He often berates himself and tells me he is terrible and stupid.” Another described their child’s growing anxiety and self-harm. Many parents say schools dismiss their concerns or mislabel children as lazy, annoying or uncooperative.
Lack of awareness fuels poor outcomes
Lead author Dr Charikleia Sinani from York St John University explains that “DCD isn’t just about ‘clumsiness’.” The condition affects confidence, participation and long-term mental wellbeing. Despite this, public and professional understanding remains low. Parents often feel ignored and overwhelmed. Even with a formal diagnosis, support can be inconsistent or unavailable.
Professor Kate Wilmut of Oxford Brookes University urges action. “Despite growing public awareness of neurodiversity, DCD remains critically overlooked,” she says. Children often miss out on coordinated care and struggle in all areas of life.
The report calls for better awareness and training across schools, health and social care. Faster diagnosis, access to therapy, and targeted mental health support would help children thrive rather than suffer.
Read the full report at https://doi.org/10.25421/yorksj.29314178
York St John University will host the DCD UK Conference 2025 this July, focusing on ‘bridging the gap between research and lived experience’. Full details and booking at DCD UK Conference | York St John University