The SightCare Awards 2026 are now open for entries - and this year, they’re bigger, bolder and more prestigious than ever.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham, the SightCare Awards return in black-tie style on Sunday 26 April 2026, forming a highlight of the SightCare LIVE 2026, our two-day conference, awards and expo.
This national celebration of independent optical excellence will bring together practice owners and teams from across the UK for an evening of inspiration, recognition and connection.
Emma Rawlings, CEO of SightCare, said: “The independent optical sector is full of remarkable people and practices doing incredible things every day. The SightCare Awards are our way of shining a light on that excellence, from clinical brilliance and business innovation to the compassion and community spirit that make independent optometry so special.”
Now in its sixth year, the SightCare Awards programme has evolved to reflect the diversity and depth of talent within the sector. For 2026, the categories have been expanded to 12, including five new awards that recognise specialist expertise, personal impact and business evolution.
The 2026 Award categories are:
- Independent Practice of the Year
- Clinical Excellence
- Customer Service Excellence
- Specialist Clinic Award – NEW
- Community Practice of the Year
- Practice Team of the Year
- Heart of the Practice (individual) – NEW
- Start-up Practice of the Year - NEW
- Long-standing Practice of the Year - NEW
- Business Innovation of the Year - NEW
- Frame Styling Practice of the Year
- Environmental Practice of the Year
Entries are open to all SightCare members, with judging criteria tailored to celebrate excellence, creativity, leadership and positive impact.
Winners will be announced at a glittering black-tie gala dinner during SightCare LIVE 2026, where the independent community will come together to celebrate the achievements of those who make independent practice thrive.
Entries are now open via the SightCare website: www.sightcare.co.uk/awards-2026
