In Other News

A healthier wales? October last year saw the instigation of a new optometry contract for Wales – in line with the Welsh government’s “A healthier Wales” policy – which has led to more use of community-based services and greater communication and collaboration between the different services through primary care clusters. Writing in Dispensing Optics, the magazine of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), Abi Crutcher, ABDO regional lead for Wales, says that the new contract has been generally well received by the profession – but asks, “What do the changes mean for dispensing opticians (DOs) in Wales?”

A great way to do this, she advises, is to join one of the three local regional optical committees (ROC) in Wales. “ROCs are keen to welcome new members, and it’s possible to go along to a meeting as an observer initially; most meetings are held online. Becoming a member of the committee allows you to have a say in delivering local eyecare,” says Crutcher. “With all the changes happening in Wales, it’s important for the dispensing profession to be involved, and to help shape any future developments.” Link

Satisfaction survey. Have your say on The College of Optometrists’ Membership Satisfaction Survey 2024 for a chance to win a £150 Amazon voucher. Closing date is Tuesday, July 30. Link

ABDO: save the date. ABDO members are invited to save the date – Tuesday September 17, 2024 – for the Association’s annual consultation with members. The online evening event will be preceded by the ABDO Annual Meeting and the Annual Meeting of the ABDO Benevolent Fund. Link

Raise the game. Partially sighted football supporter calls for UK clubs to make their stadiums more accessible for fans with vision impairment. Link

Welcome letter. Gillian Rudduck, the new President of The College of Optometrists, writes open letter to the incoming Secretary of State for Health, Wes Streeting, congratulating the Labour Party on election victory – and reminding him that  600,000 NHS patients are currently waiting to begin ophthalmology treatment in England. Link

Essilor celebrates Thornbury site anniversary. On July 4, more than 300 staff at the Essilor site in Thornbury, Bristol celebrated 50 years of optical lens manufacturing with an American-themed party. The company has been a major employer in the area over the years using state-of-the art manufacturing to produce 750,000 lenses a year for global brands such as Essilor, Stellest lenses, Eyezen and Varilux. Link