News archive for 2026
A tribute to Naheem Abbas: 11/07/1980 – 06/05/2026
It is with great sadness that the team at ZEISS announce the passing of Naheem Abbas, who died peacefully on Wednesday 6th May. "He battled cancer like he lived, with strength, humility and strong faith. "Naheem dedicated his entire career...
Supporting innovative eye disease research
Newmedica is supporting research into a potential next generation treatment for diabetic retinopathy, reinforcing its commitment as an eye health champion. Working in partnership with charity Sight Research UK, the project is led by Dr Michael O’Hare and his team...
‘World first’ virtual reality eye retrieval programme helps make more sight-saving corneal transplants available for patients
A ‘world first’ virtual reality eye retrieval training programme, created by NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT)’s Tissue and Eye Services and Digital Learning Teams, will help to increase the number of sight-saving corneas available for transplant across the UK by...
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...
WATCH EPISODE 16: Beyond 2020 with the Andean Medical Mission
Welcome to the 16th episode of Beyond 2020, the video series from Andean Medical Mission | Bolivian Medical Charity that looks at strategies to eliminate avoidable blindness in countries with developing eyecare services and shares ideas and solutions to common...
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...
Glaucoma UK names 2026 Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award winners
Glaucoma UK is delighted to announce the winners of its 2026 Excellence in Glaucoma Care Awards, recognising outstanding individuals and teams who are transforming glaucoma care for patients across the UK. Individual Excellence in Glaucoma Care Award (joint winners) Mr...
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...
Over 8700 Scots will lose their sight this year
New data from sight loss charity RNIB reveals that 8730 people in Scotland will begin living with sight loss in the next 12 months alone, and that the total number of people affected is set to grow by nearly 21%...
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...
