NHS England are introducing renewed optical services for Special Schools and want to hear from motivated practitioners who are interested in this rewarding area of practice.
People with Learning Disability are more likely to need spectacles. As discussed in the latest LOCSU Podcast, a successful sight test for these patients needs additional care and attention.
It is especially important that children with Learning Disability in Special Schools have access to high quality optical services. NHS England have focused on this need and have been working with the charity SeeAbility to find ways to improve optical services in Special Schools. This video illustrates the enormous value of delivering these services well.
NHS England and are preparing to introduce a new and well-resourced ‘Sight Testing in Special Schools’ service across England. Cheshire & Merseyside and Lancashire & South Cumbria have been chosen as Early Adopter areas. ‘Expressions of interest’ are now being sought from practitioners with passion and enthusiasm. You could be part of an existing optical practice, or interested in setting up a dedicated team. Either way, an opportunity exists to make the best use of your optical skills to make a real difference to young lives, whilst giving you a truly stimulating new avenue of practice.
If you are interested and would like to find out more then please email lmblocsec@gmail.com with your name and contact number which we will pass to NHS England. They will contact interested parties for an initial informal conversation.
Please note, this fantastic opportunity is open to Dispensing Opticians & Optometrists. NHS England will help create teams if you are interested but are an individual.
