Wearing glasses boosts income by a third in low-income communities, finds landmark new study

A pair of reading glasses increases the earnings of people in low-income communities by 33% according to new research.

Thank you, Baljean Dhillon. Welcome onboard, Peter Cackett.

As our Co-editor of over 11 years, Baljean Dhillon, passes the torch, Peter Cackett steps up to take on the role.

Optoversity 2024 happens on Sunday 7 April online

Students and companies have just a few days left to sign up for the annual Optoversity Challenge optometry competition and charity fundraiser for Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP), run by student training provider Out of the Box Optics.

2024

Welcome to our Spring Special of 2024! The year is well underway and I can feel change is in the air. It’s the Chinese year of the dragon, generally regarded as a good sign, plus it’s 40 years on from...

Report: Kabgayi International Ophthalmology Conference 2024

My journey to Rwanda in April 2022 aimed to expand vitreoretinal services, but it also highlighted the need for robust scientific discourse, akin to the UK's ophthalmology culture, and so we seized the opportunity to plan an 'international' ophthalmology conference to coincide with a visit from five of my former UK consultant colleagues.

CHEC Preston celebrates key milestone with 3000th patient

Community healthcare provider marks major milestone for patient choice and equitable access.

Glaucoma UK launches the Pitts Crick Career Development Fellowship in celebration of its golden jubilee anniversary

Glaucoma UK is a leading charity dedicated to supporting those affected by glaucoma. The charity is proud to announce the establishment of the Pitts Crick Career Development Fellowship, a three-year post-doctoral research fellowship awarded to help mark the charity’s golden jubilee anniversary. The fellowship will support a rising star within glaucoma research, who the charity hopes will go on to play a pivotal role in transforming glaucoma diagnosis or treatment into the future.

In memory of John Hockney, 1948–2024

“I think it is fair to say that John was 'Mr Optrafair' for many years and devoted an enormous amount of his time to ensure it was a financial success for the FMO,” said former FMO Vice-Chairman Kingsley Sleep.

Applications closing soon for leadership and management training and qualifications

Optical professionals who want to boost their career in management are encouraged to apply now for the leadership and management courses from the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). Study is carried out 100% online and the closing date for applications for training leading to these qualifications is Thursday 4 April 2024.

MP Andy Carter officially opens community healthcare clinic in Warrington

Andy Carter, MP for Warrington South, has officially opened a brand new community ophthalmology hospital which promises to improve patient choice in the area.

BCLA ASIA 2024 triumphantly takes place in Chengdu, China

The British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) marked an historic milestone with the successful staging of BCLA ASIA in mainland China.

Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers awards silver Fincham medal to Professor Shahina Pardhan

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers has demonstrated its continuing support for research by awarding its prestigious Silver Medal to Professor Shahina Pardhan, the UK’s first female Professor of Optometry, and by renewing its commitment to further medal awards for academic and clinical achievement.