Glaucoma UK’s Helpline has been awarded the Helplines Standard accreditation, recognising the quality, consistency and professionalism of the support it provides to people affected by glaucoma, as well as to the professionals who support them.
The Helplines Standard is the nationally recognised quality benchmark for organisations delivering helpline services. Awarded by the Helplines Partnership, it recognises best practice in providing safe, effective and person centred support, underpinned by robust governance, training and continuous improvement.
As part of the accreditation process, Glaucoma UK’s Helpline underwent a comprehensive independent assessment examining how the service is designed, delivered and managed, including the quality of information provided, safeguarding processes, and how the service responds to the needs of people seeking support.
The assessment concluded that “the commitment to delivering an effective, high-quality service was strongly evident” and highlighted the Helpline team’s professionalism, expertise and clear passion for providing accurate, compassionate support. The Helplines Partnership also commended the charity’s strong focus on review and improvement, ensuring the Helpline continues to reflect the experiences and concerns of people living with glaucoma.
Shelley Shocolinsky Dwyer, Helpline Manager at Glaucoma UK, said: “Our Helpline is often a first point of contact for people who are newly diagnosed, worried about symptoms, or struggling to navigate treatment and care. Achieving the Helplines Standard provides assurance that the support we offer is high quality, evidence informed and delivered with care and compassion.”
Joanne Creighton, Chief Executive at Glaucoma UK, added: “The Helpline plays a vital role alongside clinical services, helping people feel informed, reassured and supported at times of uncertainty. This accreditation is a significant achievement and reflects the expertise, dedication and professionalism of our Helpline team.”
Glaucoma UK’s Helpline provides confidential information, emotional support and reassurance to people with glaucoma, their families and carers. It is also used by health and care professionals seeking guidance or signposting to further support for patients. The service complements clinical care by helping people better understand their condition, treatment options and available support.
Health and care professionals are encouraged to signpost patients and carers to the Helpline as part of holistic glaucoma care.
Glaucoma UK Helpline
Telephone: 01233 648 170
Email: helpline@glaucoma.uk
Website: www.glaucoma.uk/helpline
