News
Updated Supervision eligibility, opportunities and support for Scheme of Registration from 1 July 2026
From 1 July 2026, supervision arrangements on the Scheme for Registration will align with the model already used in Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP). This marks the final stage of the transition to supervision arrangements designed to meet the GOC’s...
New College President announced at The College of Optometrists’ AGM
The College of Optometrists has welcomed Professor Irene Ctori FCOptom as the professional body’s new President at the College’s AGM, held in Harrogate during Optometry Tomorrow, the College’s flagship conference. Professor Irene Ctori previously served as Vice-President of the College...
Brenda Rennie appointed as new ABDO president
The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) is pleased to announce the appointment of Brenda Rennie as its new President, succeeding Kevin Gutsell. Brenda officially takes on the role following her tenure as vice president, bringing with her a wealth...
ABDO releases new white paper on paediatric vision care
The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has released a new white paper, Advancing paediatric vision care: evidence-based insights and best practices for dispensing spectacles to children by Dr Alicia Thompson. Children’s vision underpins educational attainment, social interaction and lifelong...
Not-for-profit delivers one million patient assessments, expanding access to community eyecare
Primary Eyecare Services, a not-for-profit provider, has reached a major national milestone – supporting more than one million patient assessments in a single year. Delivered during 2025/26, the achievement highlights the growing role of community-based, not-for-profit care in improving access...
SightCare celebrates excellence at 2026 national optical awards
Independent practices from across the UK recognised for outstanding patient care, innovation and community impact at SightCare LIVE. SightCare has recognised the very best in independent optometry at its 2026 national awards, held as part of SightCare LIVE at Edgbaston...
The College of Optometrists and AOP support “once-in-a-generation” reform for assessing drivers’ eyesight
The bodies are working together to prepare recommendations for Government on optometry-led mandatory eyesight testing for older drivers. The College of Optometrists and the Association of Optometrists (AOP) will send a clear message to government when they submit their response...
UK Eye Care Data Hub updated with additional eye conditions
The UK Eye Care Data Hub, the most up-to-date and comprehensive model of the UK’s eyecare workforce and eye diseases in one place, has been expanded to almost double the number of eye conditions and update aspects of the sector...
Medtech company Eyoto announces new interim CEO
Birmingham-based medtech company Eyoto has appointed a new interim CEO as the company builds on its success as a pioneer in the teleoptometry sector. Tony Veverka has stepped up after serving as a board advisor for Eyoto since 2025 and...
Optical sector bodies urge GOC to rethink approach to CPD reform
The UK’s main optical sector bodies have responded to the General Optical Council’s (GOC) consultation on proposed reforms to continuing professional development (CPD), warning that the current proposals could have implications for public protection if not carefully implemented and may...
College launches part two of new CPD course in myopia management
The College of Optometrists has published the CPD course – 'Part 2 – Diving deeper into myopia management' – which follows 'Part 1– Myopia management essentials' in the myopia series. This online learning course will help members enhance their clinical...
The Optical Suppliers Association joins The Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye
The Optical Suppliers Association (OSA) has joined The Alliance for Healthcare from the Eye, underscoring its commitment to ethical adoption of oculomics and advancing the role of eye health within broader healthcare pathways. OSA will support the efforts of The...
