Navigating politics with ADHD and dyslexia: my journey to Westminster
Adam Dance (Credit: Olivia Grant)
4 min read
Growing up, school was one of my biggest challenges.
Diagnosed with severe dyslexia, I found the classroom daunting – words seemed to float on the page, and learning felt like a constant battle. ADHD added another layer of difficulty, making it hard to focus or fit into traditional education systems. Trying to concentrate was incredibly hard; the slightest thing distracted me, pulling my mind in a completely different direction.
But what I lacked in academic achievement, I made up for in resilience. I refused to let these challenges define me. Instead, I channelled my energy into practical work, setting up a successful landscaping business. It was through this work – interacting with people from all walks of life – that I discovered my passion for problem-solving and my desire to make a tangible difference in my community.
Politics can seem like an exclusive club, reserved for those with polished CVs and a certain way of speaking
My first step into politics came at age 16, when my local youth club faced closure. I couldn’t stand by and watch such an essential part of our community disappear. With the support of residents, I launched a campaign to save it – and we succeeded. That experience taught me two crucial lessons: the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for what matters.
Encouraged by this success, I decided to run for local office. Being a councillor allowed me to work directly with people, listening to their concerns and helping to solve problems. Over the years, I earned a reputation for “getting things done” – a description I wear as a badge of honour.
In 2022, I took on the role of lead member for public health at Somerset council. It was a privilege to help lead on issues that affect people’s everyday lives, from mental health to healthcare access. But the challenges I saw in my own constituency – the struggles of small businesses, the pressures on our NHS, and the erosion of public services – drove me to step up to the next level.
Becoming an MP was never something I thought I could achieve. With my background and learning challenges, it often felt out of reach. Politics can seem like an exclusive club, reserved for those with polished CVs and a certain way of speaking. But I hope my story shows that politics needs people from all backgrounds, and that anyone with drive and determination can make a difference.
Living with ADHD and dyslexia has taught me to approach problems differently. I’m creative, solutions-focused, and deeply empathetic - qualities that I believe make me a better representative for the people of Yeovil. Yes, the job comes with its challenges, but it’s a privilege to serve a constituency that I care about so deeply.
As an MP, I am committed to holding the new Labour government to account and ensuring that long-overdue improvements are delivered for our region. We’ve seen years of neglect under the Conservatives, and I won’t stand by while rural areas like mine are left behind. From addressing the cost-of-living crisis to ensuring better access to healthcare and transport, I will fight for every corner of Yeovil and South Somerset.
For those who are living with learning difficulties or conditions like ADHD, my message is simple: don’t let it stop you. You are capable of more than you think. I know how isolating and frustrating it can be, but with the right support and a belief in yourself, you can overcome those barriers.
As I navigate this new chapter in Westminster, I am proud to represent a place that shaped me, supported me, and taught me the value of resilience. Together, we can work to ensure that no one is left behind.
Adam Dance, Liberal Democrat MP for Yeovil
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