Dispensing Optics

DECEMBER 2018

DISPENSING OPTICS

NEWS, INFORMATION and EDUCATION for OPTICIANS ABDO NRC, Birmingham The NEW National Resource Centre

NEW ABDO facilities in Birmingham VICTORIA ROAD B4132 A5127 • An education events and examinations • The new location for all dispensing and hub with 11,000 sq. ft. over two floors. contact lens practical examinations. Aston • Clinical facilities showcasing the latest • Available for meetings, conferences, A38 PORTLAND technology. seminars, training, revision and CET courses. C ATHERINE

STREET WHARF STREET • 10 clinical bays equipped for refraction • Lecture areas for 60 to 160 people. STRE

E T and contact lenses and pre-screen area. • Flexible facilities offering one large area or ROCKY LANE • State-of-the-art video slit-lamp which can up to 5 separate rooms. ON ASTON CROSS be recorded and projected live on up to ASTON ROAD NORTH • Rooms can be set up in theatre, exam or B4144 5 screens around the building. cabaret style. AVE ROAD Aston Cross • Equipment for dispensing, screening, minor CHESTER STREETBusiness Village • Catering facilities available including water eye conditions services and glazing. dispensers, 'bean to cup' coffee and artisan • Within easy reach of major road, rail and flavoured teas. air transport links. Acknowledgement ABDO is grateful for profession-wide support from a great number of retail and optical THE ABDO NRC BIRMINGHAM IS NOW businesses. Including frame, lens, AVAILABLE FOR EXTERNAL BOOKINGS. contact lens, instrument and equipment manufacturers. To book, call Phil Hall on 07538 525 206 or email him at [email protected]

ABDO National Resource Centre 4th Floor, Aqueous II, Aston Cross Business Village, Chester Street, Birmingham Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Contents 19.

32. 16.

14. 30.

31. 100% Optical Features Bustle and buzz at ExCel

32. Charity Product Spotlight 18. Have suitcase, will travel Festive frame edit by Lee Davis

22. ABDO CET 34. Business From CET to CPD and beyond Every day’s a school day by Alex Webster writes Nick Walsh 24. Multiple Choice Answers The importance of improved provision for patients with learning and other disabilities Regulars by Ned Saunders

26. Sight loss 5. DO Dispatches

Eyes on film 6. A DO and proud of it by Antonia Chitty 8. News 28. ABDO NCD Active, engaged and involved 25. Business Bites Report by Nicky Collinson 35. FAQs

36. Jottings by Daryl Newsome FRONT COVER

Image from stock 38. Jobs & Notices

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 3 The future is here 100% Optical Launching: 12-14.01.19 Stand L110

www.shamirlens.co.uk | [email protected] | 01954 785100 DISPENSING OPTICS The Professional Journal of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians

VOLUME 33 NO 12

EDITORIAL STAFF Editor Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO DO Dispatches Assistant Editor Jane Burnand Email [email protected] Managing Editor Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) Email [email protected] CAUSE FOR CONGRATULATIONS Design and Production Rosslyn Argent BA (Hons) Email [email protected] It is not often that we have cause to Admin. Manager Deanne Gray HonFBDO congratulate the General Optical Council Email [email protected] (GOC) on making the right decision – but

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING this month is a welcome exception. The Telephone 0781 2734717 decision to delay the implementation of a new CET/CPD Email [email protected] Website www.abdo.org.uk scheme until 2022 is a great relief (see News page 8). The plan to implement a new scheme at the beginning of 2020, SUBSCRIPTIONS following a one-year scheme, was fatally flawed – partly UK £150 Overseas £175, including postage because the much vaunted Education Strategic Review has Apply to Tom Veti not been completed and partly because once we have a Association of British Dispensing Opticians clear idea what that review consists of, there will need to Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent CT4 7DT Telephone 01227 733922 be a lengthy lead in time to commission totally new Email [email protected] material courses and modes of delivery. Website www.abdo.org.uk At ABDO we are very keen to embrace a much more ABDO CET professionally focused scheme, where personal development Head of CET Alexandra Webster MSc BMus PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA is a key component. We now look forward to working with the

ABDO CET, 5 Kingsford Business Centre, Layer Road, Kingsford, GOC and others to create an exciting and relevant scheme for Colchester CO2 0HT all of our members. ABDO has been at the forefront of Telephone 01206 734155 lobbying the GOC on this issue along with our optometry Email [email protected] colleagues. I hope that the willingness of the GOC to listen to CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL reasoned argument on this vital topic will not be a ‘one off’, Joanne Abbott BSc(Hons) FBDO SMC(Tech) but the start of a period of greater co-operation and Josie Barlow FBDO CL Keith Cavaye FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA understanding of the needs of the sector. Andrew Cripps FBDO PG Cert HE FHEA Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL Unbelievably, this is the last edition of Dispensing Optics for Stephen Freeman BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons) Cert Ed 2018 and for me at least the year has just raced by. It has Claire McDonnell FAOI Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed been a year of great progress for ABDO and for all our Paula Stevens MA ODE BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO CL(Hons)AD SMC(Tech) members; the launch of minor eye conditions services and the Gaynor Whitehouse FBDO (Hons) LVA opening of our National Resource Centre in Birmingham being

JOURNAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE the two highlights. Richard Crook FBDO Kim Devlin FBDO(Hons)CL It just remains for me to wish all members a very happy Kevin Gutsell FBDO(Hons) SLD festive season and a very happy and successful New Year. Ros Kirk FBDO Angela McNamee BSc(Hons) MCOptom FBDO(Hons)CL FBCLA Cert Ed Sir Anthony Garrett ABDO general secretary DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY ABDO, 199 Gloucester Terrace, London W2 6LD DISPENSING OPTICS IS PRINTED BY P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

Dispensing Optics welcomes contributions for possible editorial publication. However, contributors warrant to the publishers that they own all rights to illustrations, artwork or photographs submitted and also to copy which is factually accurate and does not infringe any other party’s rights

ISSN 0954 3201

AVERAGE CIRCULATION: 9,437 (Jan-Dec 2017) ABDO Board certification

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 5 A DO CLIVE MARCHANT FBDO & PROUD Our monthly column from the ABDO president

A DO and proud of it

was delighted to attend our annual professionally and to the public. ABDO also graduation and prizegiving ceremony works to protect the regulated dispensing last month at the magnificent functions, and strives to further our Canterbury Cathedral. How times involvement and extend our scope of have changed. In 1980, when I practice. Our CLO members delivering Iqualified, I received a typed letter from minor eye conditions services (MECS) is a the Association of Dispensing Opticians, notable achievement this year. ABDO’s forerunner, informing me of my Yes, we get a diary (and I must say this exam results – and my certificate arrived year’s diary is back to the standard of previous in the post a few weeks later. years); Dispensing Optics is free for every I’m extremely envious of our students member – and what a quality publication it is attending today’s prestigious graduation at compared to some other optical publications. Canterbury Cathedral. It was an absolute CET is provided free for all members at local delight to receive so many graduands and and national events along with online access give the ceremonial handshake, which is key and via Dispensing Optics. to proceedings and to our graduands Clive updates members at the There are numerous lifestyle benefits becoming graduates. It is a day to remember National Consultation Day available, which can be accessed on the for life. Thanks must go to all the ABDO website, and some of the most popular are team who make it such a special event. independent practice is to survive and cinema tickets, gym membership and The FBDO qualification opens the door flourish in future years. student discount cards. Advice and Guidelines to so many opportunities today. are also available via the website and this Qualification is not the end of our studies CONSULTATION AND DEBATE should be considered as our bible for all but the start of a lifetime of continuing Our annual National Consultation Day was that we do in our working life. professional advancement for those of us held at the National Resource Centre at the Other benefits are those we need but who want to be fantastic dispensing end of October, giving us the chance to hope we never use. These include legal opticians. A host of high-level training update members on current and future protection, including pre-disciplinary options are available to those who want to activities. We were keen to hear members’ hearings, legal defence, disciplinary hearings, advance their clinical skills in low vision, views on subjects such as membership, CET employment disputes and tax protection. contact lenses and minor eye conditions and professional development. The most Our membership team is on hand to help services, along with opportunities to recent results of our ongoing series of and advise you, and has the backing of a 24- progress from diploma to BSc then Masters. online surveys were shared and healthy hour helpline. All this provides peace of Even to PhD level. debate ensued. mind that help is at hand if needed. Optics is long overdue an extensive The day was very beneficial for those Membership also entitles you to research programme and we must members who attended and the Association, professional indemnity insurance at a cost encourage our members to progress to and I look forward to future consultation of £35 for DOs, £45 for CLOs and £65 for higher education and conduct independent events. The big issue is engagement with CLOs providing MECS. While those of us in research in a wide range of areas, relevant you, the members, and I urge you to take employment may be covered by our to DOs. In future years, this research will part in future surveys. ABDO must also look employer’s legal protection and indemnity assist greatly in our professional at where and when consultation events take insurance, one must question whether it advancement – and ABDO will financially place, enabling more members to attend. will truly support and cover you, or favour support those progressing into research. your employer? ABDO will support you – Management is another area of FAR-REACHING BENEFITS and you alone. advancement and our Business Support Hub Our annual membership renewal notices This and much more is what ABDO within the ABDO website provides an will soon be delivered to us. One of the membership provides, and I hope you agree encyclopaedia of advice and support for most common questions I hear from what fantastic value membership provides. those keen to progress into management – members is: what does my membership Finally, with the festive season upon us for managers, practice owners and those provide for me? and another year drawing to an end, may I who aspire to own their own practice. This Firstly, the ABDO team works tirelessly wish you all a Happy Christmas and a is something we must support if promoting the worth of a DO – both inter- healthy and prosperous New Year.

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urgent that we should rush change through before providers are ready. “So instead, the next CET cycle will be another three year cycle with the same requirements we have at the moment. This will give us the time to make long-term changes in a considered, evidence-based way that allows providers to make the necessary preparation for January 2022 and registrants to prepare themselves for a scheme that will have a greater emphasis on reflective learning,” added Dr Shanmuganathan. Mark Turner receives his diploma The GOC will now consult next year on changes to CET, which will come into Current scheme to remain in place effect for the 2022-24 cycle. The GOC is PLATFORM TO also changing the MyCET online system to CAREER PROGRESSION CPD SCHEME be more user-friendly from January 2019, particularly on portable devices. The Worshipful Company of Spectacle

DELAY WELCOMED Commenting on the GOC’s decision, Makers (WCSM) recognised optical ABDO has welcomed a decision taken last ABDO chief executive, Tony Garrett, said: “I assistants and technicians who have month by the General Optical Council welcome the decision by the GOC to start passed their examinations in the last (GOC) to delay the introduction of a new a new three-year CET cycle from January. year as well as welcoming 14 new scheme of continuing professional The proposed one-year option was not Freemen at its recent awards ceremony development (CPD) until 2022. satisfactory at all and would have sent the at Apothecaries’ Hall in London. On 14 November, council members wrong message to registrants. WCSM Master, John McGregor OBE, voted in a new three-year cycle of CET “ABDO has consistently lobbied the said: “Achievement of these unique based on the current scheme, delaying a GOC to postpone the introduction of a new qualifications is a testament to the hard move to CPD in 2020. The GOC said input to system until the education strategic review work that the candidates have put in and its recent CET consultation, presented at the has been completed. It is very welcome provides a great platform for them to meeting, and other feedback showed that that the GOC has shown that it is open to develop their careers in optics further.” stakeholders were concerned that they change when a decision is clearly wrong. Our photographs show ABDO College would not be able to meet the requirements “We look forward to working with the technician, Mark Turner, receiving his SMC of a revised system by January 2020. GOC to develop a better CET/CPD system (Tech) diploma from the WCSM Master. Dr Subo Shanmuganathan, GOC interim starting in 2022,” Tony concluded. director of education, said: “Change is Turn to page 22 for our special feature important but the consultation does not on, ‘From CET to CPD and beyond’, by ABDO EDUCATION REVIEW suggest that the need for change is so head of CET, Alex Webster. ROUND TWO The deadline for responding to the General Optical Council (GOC) consultation on

CENTURIES OLD CHARITY CELEBRATES new draft standards for education One of Scotland’s oldest charities recently providers and learning outcomes for marked its 225th year supporting blind students as part of its education strategic and partially sighted people. review (ESR) is 25 February. Royal Blind held a reception for its The proposed learning outcomes and supporters, staff and service users at the standards have been drafted to incorporate Scottish parliament in October, hosted by feedback from the previous consultation on ESR concepts and principles, and there Stuart McMillan MSP. are five proposed standards covering areas Royal Blind was established in including quality of learning, patient safety Edinburgh 1793 – the same year in which and access to clinical experience. Rabbie Burns wrote Scots Wha Hae! Today, “The draft learning outcomes would Royal Blind provides care, education and replace the current competencies required employment for people with sight loss by all students to complete before they from across the country. Milestone marked in parliament join the register as a qualified optical Royal Blind chief executive, Mark professional,” said GOC interim director of O’Donnell, said: “Over the centuries our work has evolved with society’s attitudes education, Dr Subo Shanmuganathan. “The towards disability. Today we are Scotland’s largest vision impairment organisation and proposed outcomes cover technical skills our mission is to see a community in which blind and partially sighted people are fully and the ‘softer’ skills required to become included, with their rights and aspirations fully supported.” a professional.” To mark the milestone year, Royal Blind has produced a booklet on the evolution of Read the latest news from the GOC, societal perspectives towards sight loss and disability, and how its services evolved over and respond to the consultation, at the centuries. It is available at www.royalblind.org www.optical.org

8 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Prescription Eyewear

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James Russell with his certificate MEETING LENS WEARERS’ NEEDS Bausch + Lomb has released the results of a survey of 250 reusable contact lens FELLOWSHIP HONOUR patients undertaken in the summer to coincide with the launch of its new Ultra for Astigmatism contact lens. FOR PAST PRESIDENT The UK survey showed that more than one third of patients wear their lenses for Past ABDO president, James Russell, has more than 12 hours a day, and that almost half would like to wear them for longer, but received an Honorary Fellowship from are held back from doing so by vision and comfort issues. the College of Optometrists. Ultra for Astigmatism utilises the company’s MoistureSeal Technology to deliver Honorary Fellowship recognises moisture retention and a highly wettable surface for long lasting wear. According to the individuals involved in the wider eye company, the lens’s OpticAlign Design promotes stability and a successful first fit. The healthcare and vision science professions design also includes a thin tapered edge to minimise lid interaction, orientation marks for their outstanding contribution to and spherical aberration control. optometry or to the College. James was Amy Rothwell, Bausch + Lomb business unit head UK and Ireland, Vision Care said: recognised specifically for helping to “build “The survey findings show that reusable lens wearers are committed contact lens wearers collaboration between optometrists and who wear their lenses day in and day out and would like to wear their lenses even more dispensing opticians, which has encouraged but can be held back by lens comfort and visual sharpness which they indicate can and strengthened greater cross- decrease over time. The Bausch + Lomb Ultra lenses have been designed for ultimate professional working”. comfort and clear vision all day, every day of the month, so I’m delighted that Bausch + Life Fellowships were awarded to Lomb Ultra for Astigmatism is now available to bring these benefits to more patients.” optometrists, Ruth Brough and Professor The lenses are available with a cylinder range of up to -2.75. Jennifer Craig, during the College’s annual diploma ceremony at Central Hall Westminster in London. SPORTY DISPENSING College president, Professor Edward

Mallen, said: “Fellowship is the highest OPTIONS award granted by the College and Featuring a number of product acknowledges the most outstanding improvements and new releases, Norville achievements made by those working Eyewear’s new autumn 2018 sports within the profession. It is a great privilege catalogue features more than 53 models to present these awards, that recognise the embracing all sports and action activities. value of the extraordinary contribution and There is a large selection of models for commitment made by these individuals to children and youngsters, from swimming the advancement of the profession and to the EG action range of protective ultimately to the benefit of our patients.” goggles, along with package price frame The College also awarded Fellowships and lens options. by Portfolio to recognise achievement in “Sports prescription specifying is the workplace to optometrists Dr Stefan without doubt complex, and knowledge Bandlitz, Kamlesh Gohil, Alison Matthews gained through dispensing experience is and Andrew Millington. Research Excellence invaluable,” said Frank Norville. “Ask our Awards were presented to Dr Nicola Logan, regional teams for prescription availability Dr Nilpa Shah, Professor Robert Hess and advice and about our wide range of display Jasleen Jolly. and point-of-sale items.”

10 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 TX5/Titanium STEPPER (UK) Limited 11 Tannery Road Tonbridge Kent TN9 1RF 01732 375975 www.stepper.co.uk Frame style shown: SI-95219 NEWS

The MP-eye

MACULAR Tim Precious Daniel with his Power 100 List entry ANALYSER DEAL Azul Optics, developer of the MP-eye RETURN TO HELM UK POWER OF INFLUENCE macular pigment assessment device, has Tim Precious has returned to the UK to teamed up with BIB to provide exclusive Daniel Williams, founder of Visualise take over as managing director of Essilor. distribution and marketing of the device Training and Consultancy, was announced With a long history of senior in the UK. as one of the most influential people with management within the Essilor Group, Tim Tim Baker, BIB CEO, commented: “We a disability in the UK at a recent reception has spent the past three years working as are very excited and proud to be involved at the South Bank Centre. vice president, Nordics, based in Copenhagen. with sales and distribution of this new The Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 The company stated that Tim would continue type of macular pigment analyser. Eyecare List is an annual publication of the 100 the work of his predecessor Mike Kirkley by most influential disabled people in the UK. professionals who have been using the pioneering strategies to create stability and More than 700 nominations were received device in their practices have told us that growth for Essilor’s independent customers. for the 100 places. the MP-eye has encouraged patients to Tim said: “It has been an honour and Well-known to readers of Dispensing take action on what they can do to protect privilege to work for Essilor over 13 years Optics, Daniel said: “I’m delighted to be their long-term eye health. The MP-eye is and I’m absolutely delighted to be driving included in the Shaw Trust Disability Power our ongoing mission of improving lives by very fast with highly repeatable results, 100 List at such an early stage in my career improving sight.” and above all is simple and intuitive to use.” and accept this accolade on behalf of the “BIB have a focus on innovative two million people in the UK with sight loss. technologies,” said Dr Shelby Temple of At the beginning, sight loss feels like the end FTP CRITERIA TIGHTENED Azul Optics, who will be speaking at 100% but later you realise it’s just the start of Optical in London next month, “and by The General Optical Council (GOC) has seeing in a different way and having a new partnering with them we feel we’ve published new fitness to practise (FTP) outlook on life. Overcoming my challenges created the right team to bring the MP-eye acceptance criteria to help determine has given me resilience, determination and whether or not to accept a complaint as to the UK market.” the ambition needed to be successful.” an allegation of impaired FTP. If a complaint relating to an individual registrant does not meet the criteria, the BID GROUP GROWS GOC will not open an investigation into A group of opticians that have joined whether the registrant’s FTP is impaired. together to bid for the DVLA contract Keith Watts, GOC FTP head of case have welcomed two new organisations to progression, said: “Fitness to practise is the group. about dealing with serious misconduct, not Bayfields Opticians, with multiple minor clinical or consumer concerns, which practices across England, and Galaxy could not call into question a practitioner’s Optical Services, which operates the new fitness to practise. The criteria will make it M&S Opticians practices, have joined the Christian French easier for us to filter out complaints that Association for Independent Dispensing could not lead to a finding of impairment, and will allow us to focus our resources Opticians and Optometrists (AIO), Smart literally every day, makes our group bid where they are most needed. The criteria Employee Eyecare, Vision Express, ever more compelling. will also have a secondary benefit in Leightons and the Hakim Group to submit “The group bid brings together a helping us to speed up our FTP process.” a tender for providing both Group 1 and complete range of optical service providers The GOC said it would regularly review Group 2 DVLA sight tests across the UK. that cover the spectrum, from locally and the criteria to ensure it is up to date in Christian French, AIO chairman, said: regionally known independents to national reflecting changes to legislation and case “The additional coverage that these and household brands, and this is unique law, and remained consistent with other organisations bring, in addition to ever amongst the propositions that have been associated guidance documents. more independents who are signing up presented to the DVLA,” added Christian.

12 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 12-14 JANUARY 2019 · EXCEL LONDON

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iDay keynote, Andy Clark One of the many campaign profiles DELEGATES SUPPORT CAREERS IN THE SPOTLIGHT ROADSHOW FORMAT ABDO’s ‘Not just a DO’ social media campaign, a key part of the Association’s strategy The joint Independents Day (iDay) and to raise the profile of the wide scope of practice of the dispensing optician, will National Eyecare Group (NEG) roadshow, feature strongly on ABDO’s new-look exhibition stand at 100% Optical next month. which took place in October, has been ABDO head of communications, Antonia Chitty, said: “It has been a real pleasure to hailed a success by the organisers – with be able to showcase the diverse range of talents amongst our members through the delegates saying they liked the change of hashtag #NotJustaDO, and we have more profiles coming up on social media. On top of format to a one-day event visiting that, everyone who visits 100% Optical will get a chance to see some of the wide range three locations. of careers available to those with the FBDO qualification in a stunning new display.” The 2018 conference was the first time Find out more about the campaign on the ABDO website. iDay had visited London, and this year saw the event running in the afternoon and evening instead of over two days. Proven Track Record managing director, Nick Atkins, said: “The delegate feedback was very positive with regards to both the programme content and the fact that iDay had come to London for the first time.” NEG’s operations director, Phil Mullins, added: “For our first iDay/NEG roadshow, it was a highly successful event, with Attention-seeking mission delegates and exhibitors saying how great the day was. Our programme was both challenging and thought-provoking and LORD MAYOR’S SHOW-STOPPER certainly stimulated the discussions among Around half a million people watched as the Worshipful Company of Spectacle the delegates.” Makers (WCSM) took part in the annual City of London Lord Mayor’s Show with the A highlight of the roadshow was the message, ‘Look after your vision’. keynote address by optometrist and With giant sized Snellen charts, a 2m wide ‘Lemtosh’ frame provided by Moscot trainer, Andy Clark, which asked delegates London with bobbing eyes behind, Ishihara boards spelling out WCSM and eye-catching to consider, ‘Who do you think you are?’ umbrellas with a retinal image inside, the WCSM made the most of the opportunity to Explaining patient ‘avatar’ types and the promote the importance of eyecare. different types of independents, The overall design and materials devised by Cubitts were enhanced by bright green ‘archetypes,’ it proved so popular that and yellow sweatshirts sponsored by Nikon UK. Andy’s later workshop, on helping WCSM’s Master, John McGregor OBE, said: “It was great to see such enthusiasm about delegates to discover their own practice the key message of looking after your vision. The crowds really got behind the company type, was full. and we hope that we can build on this in future years.”

dominance; and lowest near add. multifocal contact lens options, presbyopic FITTINGLY SIMPLE Based on technology released in 2015, patients remain underrepresented among Johnson & Johnson Vision is helping each of the 183 pupil-optimised designs of wearers,” said John Meyler, senior director, practitioners to fit its 1-Day Acuvue the lens were created to match natural worldwide professional affairs at Johnson & Moist multifocal contact lenses with a pupil variants, which vary with add and Johnson Vision. “We hope that the simplicity new Acuvue Fitting Calculator. refraction combinations. The calculator of the Acuvue Fitting Calculator helps eyecare The online tool enables information to also provides an enhancement for distance professionals offer a solution to patients that be entered in three steps: best vision and near, should this be required. they may not have considered before.” sphere or subjective refraction; sensory “Despite the increasing availability of Visit www.jnjvisioncare.co.uk/5minfit

14 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Obituary William Gerald Lowe (Bill) 1947-2018

We regret to inform members of the passing of Bill Lowe, who died suddenly and unexpectedly at home on 26 October. Bill began his career in 1967 at Rayner Opticians in Fleetwood before working and studying at its Harrogate branch where he qualified as a dispensing optician in 1971. His job then took him to Whitehaven and he later joined Conlons Opticians in Lancaster where he qualified as a contact lens fitter. Later, Bill returned to the Fylde coast and spent the last 20 years of his career managing practices at Rayners and Barry Stotts in Fleetwood. Bill retired in 2007 before moving to Hambleton and leaves a loving wife, children and grandchildren.

UNLEASH Opti Forum to run contact lens series FREE SPIRIT NEW INSIGHTS IN CONTACT LENSES A new lecture series focusing on contact lenses will feature at Opti in ̺ͯŢŭƧċǍČļðŢČě Munich next month. Titled, ‘Lust auf kontaktlinsen’ (keen on contact lenses), the series is being organised by the Spectaris contact lens group at the Opti Forum. “At Opti, manufacturers present their innovations, trade show visitors can make important contacts with exhibitors, exchange ideas with colleagues and broaden their knowledge,” said contact lens specialist, Dr Stefan Bandlitz, who is also a lecturer at the Höhere Fachschule für Augenoptik Köln in Cologne and a regular guest at Opti. The lecture series, which will be simultaneously translated into English, will have a different focus on each day of the show: successful myopia management with contact lenses (Friday); industry impulses for contact lenses (Saturday); and professional follow-up inspections for contact lenses (Sunday). “Every eye is unique,” continued Dr Bandlitz. “Therefore, contact lenses must be individually selected, professionally adjusted and regularly

reviewed by the expert for each wearer.” of opti 2018.

The new North-East show entrance will take visitors directly into the new Hall C6 where the focus is on contact lenses, contact lens accessories and frames, while Hall C5 will present refraction and diagnostics products and services. There will be around 50 exhibitors specialising in contact lenses including Alcon, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, Hecht, Menicon, MPG&E, and Wöhlk. In addition, exhibitors will be presenting measuring devices for ideal fittings. View the online catalogue at www.opti.de/catalogue Frame by Nina Mûr: of the Winner

NEWS STRATEGY TALK IN STUTTGART Hans Stepper and his wife Kirsti welcomed a delegation of UK opticians to Stuttgart recently to enjoy “a total infusion into the world of Stepper”. Co-hosted by Saskia Stepper, daughter of Hans, the visit was designed to give an insight into the company and its two brands. It also gave customers a chance to discuss the potential for Stepper and StepperS frame designs for the UK and Ireland markets, and what Stepper means for their business and how this can be developed. “This was a great opportunity for both sides to gain valuable knowledge into the Elaine Styles at the House of Lords relationship between frame manufacturer and optician,” said Stepper UK managing OUTREACH “NOT ENOUGH”, SAYS CHARITY CHAIR director, Peter Reeve. “As well as developing stronger business relationships, Reaching almost half of the UK’s homeless and dispossessed was the rallying call of friendships were cemented too.” Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP) when trustees, volunteers and supporters were welcomed to the House of Lords by independent peer, Lord Filkin, a longstanding patron of the charity. Marking the 15th year since the service was launched, plans were announced to increase the number of mobile and static clinics – currently eight – to greatly increase the number of people reached by the charity. Carol Reece, head of NHS Optical Commissioning, who attended the event described the VCHP clinic model as being “the right provision for the right people. This is something that we want to work closely with and to see how we can support the provision of care.” Elaine Styles, chair of the charity, said: “We helped nearly 2,000 people here in the UK last year, but this is not enough. We are looking to open many more clinics, to have a mobile van, and to partner with High Street opticians. We need to work hard to reduce the barriers to accessing healthcare.” ABDO members interested in volunteering can find out more at www.visioncarecharity.org

CULT CELEBRITY Ellie Jarman BRAND DEAL Eyespace has announced a designer MAKING A licensing partnership with British fashion

brand Aspinal of London – favoured by POSITIVE IMPACT high profile celebrities and ambassadors, Positive Impact (PI) has promoted Ellie including the Duchess of Cambridge. Jarman to the role of marketing Opticians will be invited to preview the coordinator to run all marketing Aspinal of London boutique sunglass communications. collection at 100% Optical in January and PI managing director, Maxine Green, the collection will make its public debut said: “Ellie has worked with us for over a during London Fashion Week in February. A year and already understands our business luxury eyewear collection will follow later and product portfolio. She has a tremendous in spring/summer 2019. track record in digital marketing and can Eyespace managing director, Jayne hit the ground running, growing our social Abel, commented: “Working to the highest media and brand visibility. standards of quality and care throughout Positive Impact has also appointed two the entire design process, this exclusive new members of staff. Amy Searle has new collection highlights the integrity and joined as customer services administrator, quality craftsmanship that sits at the heart and Mike Burns in a customer services and Brand devotee, the Duchess of Cambridge of Aspinal of London.” telemarketing role.

16 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 ABDO at 100% Optical 12 - 14 JANUARY 2019 • EXCEL LONDON

Exciting changes for ABDO at

ABDO SHOW TIMES ABDO CET SATURDAY 12 JANUARY: 10:00 to 21:00 Three NEW CET sessions Approved by the GOC for both SUNDAY 13 JANUARY: 10:00 to 18:00 optometrists and dispensing opticians: MONDAY 14 JANUARY: 10:00 to 17:00 Thinking inside the box. STAND NUMBER: B244 Presented by Joanne Abbott

ABDO COLLEGE NEW. Dedicated area for ABDO College Man and machine. Presented by Fiona Anderson NEW. ABDO College Bookshop debuts at 100% Optical NEW. A new look prospectus with the full details of all ABDO College courses, What to do, what to do, what to do? from Optical Support through to Presented by Alex Webster DO/CLO NEW. Research posters from students Examinations on ABDO College’s BSc (Hons) Vision Science - meet the DOs behind the research and ask them questions Discover what the CET team has in store for the year ahead ABDO NRC Meet the team from the NRC Discover the difference this fantastic ABDO MEMBERSHIP SERVICES venue is making Meet the team! Have a virtual tour around the building Find out about ABDO membership benefits Find out more about holding your own Ask questions about GOS contracts, training and CET events at the NRC insurance, GOC fitness to practices

ABDO EXAMS DISPENSING OPTICS MAGAZINE For all exam and PQP queries (from Pick up a copy of the current issue of students or supervisors) Exams staff will Dispensing Optics magazine available from 10:00 - 16:00 on Saturday Catch up with the Dispensing Optics team and Sunday and 10:00 - 12:00 on Monday Find out how to contribute to the journal, In addition come and have a chat through an In Practice article, a Jottings, about opportunities to get involved with Opinion piece, Letter, news item or the the exams team or add your input into Through the Pinhole feature any of our qualification consultations

Association of British Dispensing Opticians The Three Wise men brought Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh. We may not have oil and perfume, but we certainly have gold and other fine materials in our seasonal selection of eyewear styles… Festive frame edit AWARD-WINNING FLORAL TRIBUTE Winner of the 2018 Silmo d’Or award in the Fashion Trend Sunglasses category, model Fiore from the Salvatore Ferragamo eyewear collection is inspired by Ferragamo’s iconic flower-shaped heels. The fashion house’s Fiore concept is reinterpreted through the oversized yet feminine proportions of the smooth metal silhouettes – one round, one butterfly shaped – enhanced with coordinating triple-gradient lenses. Each Salvatore Ferragamo’s Fiore style features two flower-shaped rivets, which pierce the lenses to create a in purple/rose/ivory graceful metallic Fiore embellishment on the front. The collection is available from Marchon.

CHAMPIONING GREAT BRITISH DESIGN Norville Eyewear’s new Racing Green collection for men is both contemporary and classic in style. Founded in 1990, the Racing Green name comes from the green livery adopted by the iconic British motor racing team dating back to the early 20th century. British Racing Green became synonymous with industry, endeavour and adaptability – all of which is reflected in the eyewear designs. Available in 17 models, each frame is manufactured to the highest Racing Green RG002 C2 Green quality from original British designs and displays the iconic Racing Green wordmark. Colourways range from classic black, through to subtle shades of navy, brown and grey. Three models, including RG002 C2 (pictured), come in the distinctive Racing Green colour itself.

LIMITED EDITION DESIGNS GO OFF GRID Launched in 2016 by Silhouette, Neubau Eyewear is founded on the longstanding heritage and inspiration of the Viennese creative district of Neubau. Now Neubau has launched a set of 300 limited edition sunglass models – Carla and Frank – designed by Viennese artist, Peter Olschinsky. A graphic designer, illustrator and photographer, Olschinsky created the distinctive artwork, which shows the region from a bird’s-eye view. Inspired by architectural grids, Olschinsky’s work has been produced in limited quantities and has been applied to the two frames using digital printing. Each pair of glasses in the collection are completely unique, acting as individual and original pieces of artwork, as each frame shows a different section of Neubau.

EXPLOSION OF COLOUR AND GLASS-LIKE ART Kirk & Kirk’s new Centena collection draws its inspiration from the Limited edition Neubau frame, Carla designers’ 100-year family heritage – from materials to customer service.

18 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Available in 10 styles across 10 monocolour options, the Centena collection uses handcrafted 10mm Italian acrylic giving the statement frames a unique lightweight property. The frame design also uses beveled and angled edges and shapes, throwing light across the face. As a designer, Karen Kirk is inspired by sculpture, architecture, Murano and Moser glass. With her background in graphic design, Karen says: “I am EYEWEAR inspired by design and art but as an optical designer and wearer, I’m focused on ensuring that the frames flatter the face and complement the style of the wearer. Each frame is like an individual sculpture revealing the glass-like properties of the material and the confident angles and shapes of the frames.”

RTW LINE REACHES FOR THE SKIES Tom Davies has introduced a ready-to-wear frame design inspired by the New York skyline. The composite design features an ion plated titanium frame with an acetate top rim, and the sides are made of either polished titanium or Kirk and Kirk’s Centena collection acetate. Based on a limited edition collection from 2014, the collection combines pure bloc titanium, engraved with a detailed filigree pattern on the bridge and set into high grade acetate. Tom said: “I designed a collection called Manhattan whilst in New York a few years ago. I remember sitting in my hotel room at the St Giles Hotel surrounded by skyscrapers. The combination of red bricks and 1920s metal structures inspired me to create this unique frame. After many requests I’ve decided to bring back this style with a few updates for my new ready-to-wear collection.” A wide range of colour options are available, along with custom fittings. Tom Davies ready-to-wear

LIMITED EDITION FRAMES WITH THE MIDAS TOUCH Following the launch of its Reykjavik Eyes Black Label Gold Edition collection in January, the Millmead Group has added three new models to the range: Surtsey, Eldfell and Kerid. The stylish frames are 18K gold plated and inherit the innovation and Reykjavik Eyes Black Label creativity of previous designs. Designer Luke Wharton said: “Our 18k Gold Surtsey Gold Edition Edition frames boast seamless lines that frame the face of the wearer with a luxurious yet minimalistic finish.” Inspired by the bestselling Black Label Skadi frames, Surtsey Gold Edition (pictured) keeps the classic round-eye shape with the natural grooves of the brow line that suits all face shapes. Eldfell is an easy-to- wear rectangular shape, while rectangular Kerid features a more angular design at the end of the brow line. The collection is available from Continental Eyewear.

ELEGANT HUES AND STYLING From the new Freya collection by Dunelm Optical is model Sadie (pictured). Featured in Amber Mottle (C2), the style offers seasonal hues of burnt oranges, soft highlights of gentle sage and warm brown accents with a delicate gold metal twist side embellishment that radiates elegance. The frame is also available, all-in glazed, in Brown Mottle (C1), Amber Mottle (C2) and Grey Mottle (C3). Sadie by Freya in Amber Mottle

COMFORT AND JOY IN HYGGE COLLECTION The on-going trend for all things ‘hygge’ has been captured in a new collection from Louis Stone Optical named, naturally, the Hygge collection. “Hygge is a word of Danish/Nordic origin pronounced ‘hewgah’, meaning ‘comfortable conviviality’,” said Clare Gaba, head of marketing and communications at the company. “Think coziness, fluffy blankets, candles, hot mugs of coffee and snuggling up next to crackling fires, ‘hygge’ surrounds the idea of utter warmth and comfort. With the quality and comfort of these beautiful, premium Scandi metals for men and women, the collection name really did seem like the perfect fit.”

In January 2019, Product Spotlight will showcase New Year launches in a range of product categories. Hygge collection represents quality and comfort

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 19 PRODUCT As Birmingham Optical launches its new OCT refresher FOCUS course at the ABDO NRC, we hear how the company leads the way as a key optical supplier

Passion for superior products

stablished more than 60 years time and space, as well as improving the ago, Birmingham Optical is a key diagnostic workflow and efficiency. With its supplier in the optical industry intuitive software, automated function, rapid providing equipment, services measurements and high-quality images, the and expertise to a variety of OCT is said to provide a better overall Eindependent opticians and large High Street experience for both the patient and chains. On 17 December, the company will practitioner. host the first of a new series of training To enhance its training offerings, the days, ‘The OCT refresher’, at the ABDO company provides an education and training National Resource Centre (NRC).* portal. It has also created a selection of Designed to help users get the most out helpful content such as a series of short of their Nidek optical coherence tomographer videos to demonstrate a number of helpful (OCT), the two-track day will include CET topics when using the Nidek OCT. These discussion workshops, presentations, basic and include the process to set up the equipment, advanced user training as well as a business scan types and capture modes, fundus camera The Nidek Retina Scan Duo OCT session. Further training days are scheduled to modes and more. The videos can be viewed run throughout 2019, and the team is also on the official Birmingham Optical website. retail environment, with first-hand experience busy preparing for a new product launch at Birmingham Optical also offers the of enhancing the patient journey. 100% Optical in London next month. Nidek Tonoref III, a “simple-to-use” four-in-

Amanda Danson, chief commercial officer one product (autorefraction, tonometry, EMBRACING EXCELLENCE and business owner at Birmingham Optical, keratometry and pachymetry). Nidek’s IN TECHNOLOGY commented: “It’s been a great year for Tonoref III boasts eight years of technical As well as its determination to provide Birmingham Optical and we’ve been really achievement with fast, reliable and high superior products, Birmingham Optical pleased with the progress and direction of measurement accuracy, says the company, takes great pride in the support services it the business. So much so, we recently moved and its space-saving design also helps to delivers, offering inspiring training and to new premises in Birmingham, working in offer an efficient patient workflow. education programmes. new open plan offices to increase our own Additional key features include an easy- The company achieves this by embracing workflow and efficiencies and to allow for to-use screen, a joystick which helps the technology and this is demonstrated in the further growth and expansion of the team operator to make fine adjustments during Nidek Retina Scan Duo OCT. Combined with and Birmingham Optical as a whole. alignment, plus 3D auto-tracking and auto- a colour fundus camera, the OCT offers “Furthermore, we have lots of great plans shot for faster, simpler and more accurate clinical excellence, says the company, in a in the pipeline for 2019,” Amanda continued. measurements for opticians. compact and easy-to-use device that saves “This includes exciting and ground-breaking To support its suite of equipment and new product launches, and we’re looking products, Birmingham Optical employs 36 forward to showcasing some of these at full-time engineers, with more than 500 upcoming industry events next year.” years’ combined experience supporting the In addition to its portfolio offering optical industry, to provide and implement products at competitive price points, an industry leading aftercare programme. Birmingham Optical prides itself on high From requesting a service visit to providing levels of service. Its passion for superior support in the unlikely event of a breakdown, quality products and long-lasting the team promises to be always on hand to partnerships is reflected in the exclusive help in a prompt and professional manner. brands it offers. These include Nidek, Oculus, For further information about Frastema and Keeler and the exclusive Birmingham Optical and its equipment, partnerships ensure that the company can services and expertise, visit provide industry leading technology. www.birminghamoptical.co.uk The team at Birmingham Optical includes * For those unable to attend the session optometrists, dispensing opticians and contact in December, there is another one planned Nidek’s Tonoref III lens opticians, all of whom have worked in a for 4 March in Birmingham.

20 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 You shouldn’t miss… …the essential FQE revision event of 2019!

LOCATION: Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire ST10 4DB WITH THANKS TO DATE: ESSILOR THE EVENT’S EXCLUSIVE SPONSOR Wed 20th to Thurs 21st MARCH 2019

At ABDO we’re passionate about providing events that are in line with your PLEASE NOTE needs and requirements. This not to be missed event follows on from the The programme is highly successful event of 2018. You will have access to great expertise as designed to be two each tutor is a current and experienced ABDO Practical Examiner. days in duration for all students and cannot be Revision will utilise a variety of methods including lecture, hands-on practical, tailored for individual peer discussion and visual recognition. resit sections. So don’t miss out, book your place now!

The event is tailored to the 2015 Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing and will cover: • All sections of the Unit 12 (FQE practical) • The Portfolio of Case Records

The event fee is £120 and will include: • Two days of revision with ABDO Examiners • Accommodation for one night at the Alton Towers Resort plus breakfast, lunch and refreshments • Entertainment and BBQ on the Wednesday evening

For more information and to book please visit www.abdo.org.uk/events/student-revision-event PROVIDING PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS Examinations

Association of British Dispensing Opticians www.abdo.org.uk ABDO With the optical education system in transit, CET Alex Webster looks at the challenges and opportunities for members From CET to CPD and beyond

s we come to the final days of three-year cycle of CET, delaying a move to evermore essential that we are recognised the current three-year CET CPD as originally proposed. This longer time and respected as healthcare professionals – cycle it seems like a good time frame allows the ESR to be fully completed not only within our industry but also to reflect on the past, consider before making changes to mandatory further afield, to pharmacists, nurses, the future and contemplate professional education, enabling any orthoptists, ophthalmologists, doctors, etc. Ahow ABDO CET can support members. necessary considerations to be reviewed All healthcare professions are required At the time of writing, I have been with before a new CPD scheme is implemented. by the government to revalidate their ABDO as head of CET for three months. ABDO ABDO will continue to work closely competence to perform their role and this CET is one of the largest General Optical with the GOC and the ESR to ensure our is administered by the relevant healthcare Council (GOC) approved providers of CET, members are fully represented as registrants regulator, for us by the GOC with CET. Why and it is a fantastic opportunity to be part and we will endeavour to keep members is this needed? One way to consider this is of a team dedicated to providing high quality up-to-date with the changes as they are to imagine ourselves as a member of the education to ABDO members and beyond. confirmed. Although a CPD scheme with general public, because that’s what we are So far over this CET cycle, ABDO has the GOC is a few years away, ABDO CET is when we visit any other healthcare provided 107,588 CET points to members fully supportive of a move to CPD and we professional for our personal needs. with more than half of these as interactive look forward to changes in mandatory So, let’s say you went to see the GP points, which we know many members often professional education requirements, in the about some minor ailment; would you be find more difficult to obtain. In the current hope that they allow dispensing opticians happy if that GP had done no further situation, where dispensing opticians do not and contact lens opticians to flourish and education since they qualified 20 years ago? have funding for CET provided by the develop as respected healthcare professionals. If they had not read one research paper or Department of Health or access to DOCET article or attended a lecture? In this sort of funds, it is reassuring to know that we are OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHANGE circumstance, it would be easy to conceive supporting members to complete their CET can be a polarising issue amongst GOC the treatment you might receive from this GOC registration requirements with CET in registrants. Many seek out opportunities to GP would be out of date. Maybe it wouldn’t Dispensing Optics and at UK regional and affirm their knowledge and learn new be as effective, maybe it would take longer national events, as a free-of-charge member developments in research, whilst others to work or maybe it would now be benefit. Separately, ABDO continues to struggle to see the relevance of mandatory considered completely inappropriate. pursue access to funding for CET. education on their day-to-day work and As a low-risk profession, it may be easy to However, as the GOC continues with end up chasing points or competencies to think that continuing professional education the Education Strategic Review (ESR), remain on the register. isn’t as important for us as it is for doctors – changes are afoot. This essential work will The reality of the situation is that CET but I am sure that if we were to ask our shape the future of education for trainee or CPD is necessary for us to be considered patients, they may hold a different view. Even dispensing opticians, contact lens opticians healthcare professionals. As the landscape small changes in how we practise or and optometrists, with the aim to ensure of healthcare continues to change, it is communicate, following on from something that the professionals of our industry are equipped and able to safely provide the services the public need both now and in !$1%2$%3$4%$56789%-./%:$896;< the future. The reality is that the outcomes NK LLCWL of the ESR will affect every GOC registrant, LJCXN as it will directly have an effect on CET. LK XK M^CW MJCKM MK CPD SCHEME DELAYED 4WCNX As part of the ESR the GOC has launched a 0 ^K public consultation on draft standards for 4K education providers and learning outcomes VK WCKW for students. When finalised, it is intended JK that these learning outcomes will form the K basis for a future continuing professional ADIU7_ID_G# !@AB# _B_5!@AB# B_`D_7# 6BZU!_b# B8F7O development (CPD) scheme for registrants, BU8D6I O7GDB_!`# 7a7_8I !O8D6`7I Z778D_GI 7a7_8I that will replace CET. At the GOC council meeting on 14 Figure 1: The majority of members obtain their CRT points through Dispensing Optics November, council members voted in a new

22 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 development of our website. We also have =>76%?$4#2%)*+,%2$%6$%(7@"%-./%($'"% exciting possibilities to consider with the 7??";;85#"%6$%3$4%:"';$97##3< opening of the National Resource Centre and the fantastic facilities available there. The CET survey also provided valuable feedback from members on the areas of LK XVCJJ practice they would like CET to cover. As we M^C4W XK ^WCNV make the slow move from CET towards MK ^XC4V ^K CPD, this is an important consideration. We 0 4K would like to see members attending events VK MCXJ I%3,%"J or participating in online or distance JK learning education not because they have K ZBO7#`B6!`# 678#8FOB

=>76%1$4#2%3$4%#8@"%6$%;""%($'"%$&%76% ALEX WEBSTER MSC, PGDIPE, FBDO CL, -./%"A"96;< FHEA is ABDO head of CET.

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Figure 3: Pathology, paediatrics, dry eye and low vision are popular CET topics The ABDO CET team from left: Sue Bennett, Alex Webster and Joanne Abbott

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 23 MCAs Multiple choice answers: The importance of improved provision for patients with learning and other disabilities by Ned Saunders BSc FBDO. C-60215 published August 2018

Six of the following questions were presented online to entrants to comply with the General Optical Council’s best practice specifications for this type of CET.

Recent figures list the number of people in the UK living contact with the patient and gain consent. The remaining with intellectual and learning difficulties at around 1.1 answers may also be stressful for the patient in the practice million. Over the next 20 years approximately how much environment but are not necessarily specific to the test itself. is this predicted to increase by? a. Five per cent Eyecare practitioners have a duty of care to patients to b. 10 per cent be aware of and flag any additional communication needs c. 15 per cent and address them appropriately. Under which duty or d. 20 per cent standard is this governed? b is the correct answer. The number of people living a. GDPR with intellectual and learning difficulties is expected to rise b. GOC Standards of practice by approximately 10 per cent over the next 20 years. This c. Accessible Information Standards means up to 1.21 million will be experiencing these challenges. d. Sale of Goods Act This has significant implications on how we provide eyecare c is the correct answer. The Accessible Information going forward. Standards states that: “The standard aims to make sure that people who have a disability, impairment or sensory loss are Evidence shows a link between learning disabilities and provided with information that they can easily read or impaired vision. The incidence of impaired vision is 28 understand, and with support, so they can communicate times more likely in children and 10 times more likely in easily with health and social care services.” This standard is adults for this group. From research, how does this now the law within the NHS and social care. However, The translate into children in special schools requiring General Optical Council standards, whilst not directly spectacle correction? addressing those with learning difficulties, does have some a. Between 30 and 50 per cent bearing as it deals with care offered to anyone. b. Between 40 and 60 per cent c. Between 50 and 70 per cent Makaton is a simplified form of sign language that can be d. Between 60 and 80 per cent useful for many people. Which of the following tests has a is the correct answer. It is estimated that between corresponding Makaton symbols to allow the patient to 30-60 per cent of all children in special education require correctly convey their answers? some form of spectacle correction in order either function or a. Kay Picture test to achieve their best. SeeAbility’s report on eyecare provided b. Illiterate Es to 1,000 children showed that only 6.7 per cent of these c. Snellen test chart children were able to access eyecare in the community. This d. Jackson cross cyl could be interpreted that we are failing between 23.3 and a is the correct answer. The Kay picture test uses 53.3 per cent of this group. pictures such as a car, house, apple, boot and star. These everyday items already have simple sign language symbols Having a sight test can be potentially traumatic for any making this a useful chart to use. The test is primarily used patient but especially so for a patient with a learning for children but can be used for adults also. It consists of disability. Which of the following may be an additional either a single or set of five pictures depending on the cards source of discomfiture for a patient with learning used. It is used at distances between 33cm and 6m and gives disabilities when having their sight tested? a VA in either Snellen or LogMar. a. Finding a carer to accompany them b. The choice of frames on offer Which statement is incorrect when booking an c. Close proximity of the optometrist when performing appointment for a person with learning difficulties?

certain tests a. It can be useful to give parking directions Multiple choice answers d. Seeing a pre-registration optometrist b. It can be useful to offer an appointment at a time when c is the correct answer. The close proximity needed for the practice is less busy. procedures such as ophthalmoscopy can be particularly c. It can help be flexible with the length of the appointment. traumatic. Not only is there an invasion of personal space d. It can be useful to speak only to their companion. but that, added to the bright light, can be very uncomfortable. d is the correct answer. Answer a, b and c are all The optometrist needs to take the time to carefully explain worthwhile endeavours where possible as these factors can any procedure that involves personal space or physical relieve the inherent stress a patient with learning difficulties

24 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 can experience. By giving information about parking and a. Shortening the length to bend by 5mm accessibility this can help the patient to attend the practice. b. Adapting the drop-end sides to loop-end sides It should be strongly counselled against speaking only with a c. Decreasing the distance between pads by 3mm companion or carer, as this distances the patient from their d. Reducing the side angles to 0 degrees own care and goes against the principle of putting the b is the correct answer. The SFC supplement can be patient at the heart of discussion making and offering used for a patient where their facial characteristics do not patient-centred care. allow the adequate fitting of a standard frame. It may be that the patient’s bridge is very low, they have a lower than usual Why is it considered important to measure the bridge projection, the ears have not fully formed or any other accommodation of a young patient with Down’s characteristic that means a frame has to be either substantially syndrome, cerebral palsy or any other learning adapted to fit or that a handmade frame is required. disabilities? a. They may not be spending much time reading Which of these is not a patient benefit of the LOCSU and b. They may be more concerned with distance vision partners model for a community eyecare pathway for c. They may have accommodative deficiencies people with learning disabilities? d. They may wish to have a longer working distance a. NHS vouchers are automatically issued to all patients with c is the correct answer. Some conditions that may learning disabilities result in learning difficulties, such as Down’s syndrome, b. An enhanced sight test in a community setting autism and cerebral palsy may also result in the patient c. More time for the optometrist to familiarise patients and having an accommodation deficiency. This may also be linked their carers with the procedures and equipment at the to a reduction in visual acuity. time of the sight test d. It enables the patient to be better prepared and facilitates A metal Erin’s World frame is dispensed to a child with information sharing with the optometrist Down’s syndrome. The frame size is 38 - 16. The frame a is the correct answer. A patient must fall within one does not fit perfectly. For which one of the following of the NHS defined groups in order to qualify for a voucher. adaptations could a Special Facial Characteristics (SFC) It may be that a patient with learning difficulties is not supplement be claimed? under 19 and in education or does receive any benefits.

Participants are advised that the GOC’s Enhanced CET Principles and Requirements v3.2 document states that for text article CET questions: “A proportion of the questions should require the application of existing professional knowledge to determine the answer”. This can include personal research online, or following up the references at the end of the article.

Business bites

HOW MENTORING WILL HELP IMPROVE • They can provide a unique perspective and advice, YOUR PERFORMANCE and can make the difference between a promising candidate and a successful one Information and resources to help us develop is Mentoring can make an impact, and thus positively everywhere, but trying to cut through the sheer volume influence career advancement by: of advice and information can be exhausting and • Fostering skills development confusing. There is a never-ending stream of advice, • Offering exposure and visibility opinions and expertise available at the click of a mouse. • Promoting mentees within an industry So who can we go to for wisdom we can trust? Where • Acting as a role model can we turn for experienced advice to help us achieve a • Increasing the mentee's confidence levels and stronger performance? The answer is increasingly, mentors: aspiration to higher levels of success • Mentors serve as guides and teachers, providing a good, In this rapidly changing world, it is important to be self- reliable sounding board, a second opinion and support aware and plan for your career. Knowing your strengths and • We learn from their experience, their mistakes and areas where you need improvement and the general direction their successes you would like to take are key elements to success. This is • We often gain access to their (usually extensive) where a mentor can help. network of decision-makers So what are you waiting for? Start improving your • Mentors are important agents in facilitating career performance today and Find Your Mentor in ABDO’s online mobility and professional fulfilment Business Support Hub.

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 25 SIGHT This month, Antonia Chitty looks at whether the LOSS portrayal of visual impairment in movies has moved beyond outmoded tropes and stereotypes

Eyes on film

t’s rare to see a dispensing optician on film. I remember watching Mike Leigh’s Secrets and Lies and being pleasantly surprised that one of the key characters was an optometrist. ISight loss appears as a theme in movies surprisingly often over the years. For people with sight loss, this isn’t always a good thing as the movie industry all too often falls back on clichés and tropes of ‘to blind’. Read on the find out more about how people with sight loss are characterised in film and what we can learn from this. “The movie blind are a pretty sorry lot; they are timid, morose, cranky, resentful, socially awkward, and prone to despair,” says Georgina Kleege. Visually impaired since childhood, Georgina is damning about the media portrayal of people with sight loss in her book, Sight Unseen. ”Actors represent blindness with an unblinking, zombie stare,” says Georgina Kleege She continues: “Actors represent blindness with an unblinking, zombie stare, recent works have been able to move beyond (1992) Slade has been blind for some time directing their gazes upwards to give the the trope where visual impairment is central and treats himself and a paid companion, face a supplicating look of helplessness. to the person’s character, and the person teenager Charlie, to a blowout weekend in Even characters that have been blind a long with sight loss is rarely the protagonist. New York. Slade focuses on scent to time seldom seem to have mastered any of compensate for his visual issues, showcased the skills that real blind people employ. FALSE MYTHS AND CHARACTERISATION in the movie as an ability to identify They fumble with their canes and stumble In the recent Marvel’s Daredevil (2015) women’s scents. But the movie has a darker over their guide dogs. The simplest daily series, the main character is Matt Murdock, side as Slade intends to kill himself after task, such as dialling the phone, gives them a blind lawyer by day, and masked vigilante the weekend. We are lead not to question no end of trouble.” Daredevil by night. This is a case of the his desire for death, instead to accept it as I’m sure you can think of characters like visually impaired man being equipped with a grim accompaniment to sight loss. this, and the stereotype featured strongly in a superior sense to compensate for his lack This movie is cited by Georgina Kleege older movies. The question is whether more of vision. In a post looking at the portrayal as an example where the character with of people with sight loss in the media, sight loss does not develop as a person. blogger and media student Alex Man, who Character development is key to “happens to be blind”, writes: “The fact that engagement with a movie. If you think this guy is a superhero sums it up: you about almost any film you have seen, the cannot be as independent unless you have lead character goes on an emotional some kind of exceptional superpower. This journey, wrestling with some sort of really encourages the myth of blind people challenge to come out a better person at having super senses, which is false – we the end. Charlie grows emotionally in the simply rely on them more as we do not film, particularly as he talks Frank out of have vision.” suicide – but does Frank himself change? By In a well-known film, Al Pacino plays a the end of the movie, he still feels that life visually impaired character, Lieutenant as he knew it is over but is more resigned to Georgina Kleege Colonel Frank Slade. In Scent of a Woman life as he returns home.

26 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 In Blink (1993) a visually impaired woman, Emma Brody, has her sight partially restored by a corneal transplant. Emma, a blind violinist who had recently undergone the revolutionary surgery, joins with a police detective to track a serial killer after she was an inadvertent witness to his latest crime. Restoration of sight is also the premise for the 2016 film, All I See is You, where Gina, the lead character has been blind since an accident as a child, and also has her sight restored. Movie director Marc Foster explains that at this point the film uses blindness as a metaphor. He says: “It’s really about awareness and Blogger Alex Man takes the movie industry to task on his website seeing the truth.” Gina asks her husband, “Did Generally, visually impaired characters using special equipment to hear high you love me more before?”, questioning who have jobs in a limited range – a piano tuner, frequency sounds. This gives him the chance she is now she can see. physiotherapist, news vendor or flower to uncover clues that his sighted colleagues seller. Sometimes they are merely there as miss. While this job may not be seen at first TRUTH TO BE TOLD a background character, without a more as a stereotype, the movie falls into another There are many more films about sight loss – personal identifier than ‘the blind trap as it reinforces the incorrect stereotype search in the ABDO (unofficial) Facebook newspaper seller’ or whatever their job is. of a visually impaired person who enhances group for a recent discussion on the topic. Alex Man cites At First Sight (1999), a their other senses in some sort of What this brief round-up does show us is romantic movie based on the essay, ‘To see compensation for their sight loss. that films don’t tell the whole story of what and not see’, in neurologist Oliver Sacks’ This type of stock character, also known it is like to be visually impaired. book – An Anthropologist on Mars – and as the blind seer, dates back centuries to Georgina Kleege says: “A ‘realistic’ blind inspired by the true-life story of Shirl the story of Tiresias in Greek mythology – person on screen would have mastered the Jennings. The blind character in the movie is as mentioned in a previous feature, Sight skills of blindness so that there would be no a masseur. Alex says: “Movies such as this loss and story (Dispensing Optics, December need to draw attention to them. If she used give the notion of what visually impaired 2017). Tiresias was a blind prophet of Apollo a white cane or read Braille, she would do people can do, rather than the attitude of in Thebes, famous for clairvoyance and for so with such ease that some viewers might ‘I’m visually impaired. What do I want to do?’” being transformed into a woman. He was not even notice. The blindness would become In contrast to this in Proof (1992) the blinded as a punishment after he stumbled invisible – the character would look sighted.” visually impaired character is Martin, a upon goddess Athena while she was In his blog post, Alex Man writes: “It seems photographer. And in the 1992 film Sneakers, bathing. His mother tried and failed to like every story has to portray a visually there is a character, Whistler, who is a bargain for his sight to be restored, but impaired person as helpless, supernatural or security consultant specialising in locating instead Athena gave Tiresias the gift of inspirational. We cannot turn on the television concealed cameras, motion detectors etc, understanding birdsong. or open a book and see that this blind person is just doing your everyday tasks. And even if WOMEN AND OBJECTIFICATION they are, it will be twisted into an inspirational The person with sight loss is rarely the story, where this blind person is able to do X movie’s protagonist, rarely even the main and Y, despite his or her disabilities. Because love interest. Instead they are a friend, doing anything else won’t meet prevalent colleague or there in two dimensions to expectations and will not generate interest.” illustrate some point. Georgina Kleege Georgina looks at the bigger picture and hypothesises that visually impaired men in says: “The film industry is no more – or less – movies perform the same “function that anti-blind that the culture as a whole.” This mainstream cinema usually reserves for is something to consider when you next see women: they exist to be looked at”. She goes a character in a film or TV show who is on to conjecture that, “movies re-enact the visually impaired, or disabled in some other castration that blindness has represented way. Representation of people with disabilities since Oedipus”. Blindness, she suggests, is in the media is developing, but it still has a viewed with “fascination and revulsion”. long way to go. Looking at the role of women with sight Read more from Georgina Kleege in her loss, she comments: “Men can look to their book Sight Unseen, Yale University Press, hearts’ content and blind women won’t 1999. Read more from Alex Man at conceal themselves or look back.” Both of https://alexman.me/dearmedia these approaches relegate characters with sight loss to objects, perhaps necessary for ANTONIA CHITTY BSC (HONS), MA, the main character’s journey of emotional MCOPTOM, MCIPR is ABDO head of The blind seer dates back centuries to the development throughout the movie, but communications and author of 20 books story of Tiresias in Greek mythology objects nonetheless. on business, health and special needs.

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 27 ABDO ABDO’s recent National Consultation Day gave members a NCD chance to share their views on the topical issues of the day, reports Nicky Collinson

Active, engaged and involved

ctive, engaged and involved summed up the position of those members who attended ABDO’s National Consultation Day in October – held at the AAssociation’s flagship National Resource Centre (NRC) in Birmingham. While strategies, policies and directions of travel were open to debate and discussion, as is the nature of the consultation day, the general consensus was one of positivity and confidence in the Association’s approach towards advancing and promoting the role of dispensing opticians both in practice and in the wider world of optics.

“IN A FANTASTIC PLACE” The day began with a welcome from ABDO president, Clive Marchant, who looked back ABDO president, Clive Marchant, looks back at the year’s events on a year of “great success” for the Association – which included the opening of “Your engagement is crucial to this Describing the membership surveys as the NRC: “ABDO’s new home for professional process,” Clive went on. “We look forward “long overdue”, Barry emphasised the value advancement”. With the profession now to hearing your input during today’s of sending out regular quick, short surveys moving in the right direction to advance breakout sessions so we can work towards as oppose to one large survey. Recent the role of opticians, engagement at a local getting the connections with, and for, results, regularly relayed back to members level was also accelerating thanks, in large members right.” via Dispensing Optics and other ABDO part, to the work of the ABDO National communications channels, had revealed Clinical Committee, established in 2016. CREATING TANGIBLE OUTCOMES that with regards to CET, 76 per cent of “There has been a lot of activity behind Following Clive’s welcome address, Barry members had so far gained their CET via the scenes,” Clive told members. “The ABDO Duncan spoke about the recent surveys that their membership journal. Eighty-two per team has grown immensely over the past had been going out to members, the results cent of members had completed their CET few years – with new staff across several of which would form points of reference online via the ABDO website, and 62 per departments including membership, across the day. “The reasoning behind the cent of members said they would like to see education and CET.” surveys,” explained Barry, “is to move more local CET events. On the political front, Clive praised the forwards. We need to listen to members and Following on from Barry’s presentation, ongoing work in policy and strategy led take the results of the surveys to create members were split into four rotating groups. by ABDO deputy chief executive, Barry tangible outcomes.” While one group discussed professional Duncan, and in the promotion of the profession both at home and abroad. “We are now in a fantastic place,” Clive enthused, “with a new structure and the work the teams are undertaking. Our membership is made up of all different types of practitioner and ABDO has to represent them all. This can sometimes be a juggling act – but we must continue to advance our clinical and management skills to be fit for Barry Duncan leads one Members listen to a presentation the future. of the breakout groups

28 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 She added that the campaign would be promoted at the upcoming 100% Optical show in London. The 2018 ABDO Radio Day had taken place at the same time as the official opening of the NRC and listeners heard ABDO president, Clive Marchant, talking about careers as an optician. The total weekly audience reach had been in excess of 29 million people for all routes to coverage. PR in the pipeline post Halloween, Antonia revealed, included a Christmas campaign, online sale of spectacles, children’s eyecare, inequality of access to eyecare, Members discuss some of the latest survey results hayfever, dry eye and minor eye conditions services. Antonia also talked about the new activities and clinical aspirations, the other to become qualified – we have got to corporate items that had been created, and two discussed employment and the role of keep learning.” said an online shop for members was likely to ABDO. The fourth group was given a tour of Discussing requirements for 2019, Alex be included in the new ABDO website due for the centre facilities by NRC head, Phil Hall. said while it wasn’t 100 per cent clear, the launch in the spring of 2019. ABDO CET Department was working on the Expanding on plans for the new ABDO CET OR CPD? assumption that all registrants would need website, Antonia said: “The new site will be After lunch ABDO head of CET, Alex Webster, to obtain 12 points during the year – and a big focus for the future, bringing ABDO turned members’ attention to ‘CET – or would be ‘expected’ to gain points across all into the 21st century. There will be more CPD?’. Posing the question, “Where do we competencies. Registrants would also be online functions, it will be clearer and easier go from here?”, Alex firstly revealed that ‘expected’ to gain at least six interactive to navigate with additional functionality by ABDO CET had provided more than 15,000 CET points, and peer discussion would not September 2019. We are also looking at interactive CET points to 2,401 delegates to be mandatory (read the latest developments introducing an ABDO app once the website date (October 2018). ABDO had also in Alex’s article on pages 22-23). project is completed,” Antonia added. provided 10,570 non-interactive CET points ABDO’s CET plans for 2019, Alex to members – concentrating on all confirmed, would be to continue to provide DELIVERING EXAM SUCCESS competencies including protected areas. CET through Dispensing Optics but to offer Next to address members was Miranda “The average ABDO member,” Alex said, more interactive CET via regional events. Richardson, ABDO assistant director of “had achieved 17.6 CET points via ABDO With regards to 2020 and beyond, Alex told professional examinations, who provided a during the three-year cycle.” members that the CET team was currently review of examinations and education over Looking to future developments, Alex reviewing the results of the survey on CET the past year. “It’s been an incredibly busy told members that the CET Department was to provide members with the best possible year for ABDO examinations,” Miranda still waiting for the General Optical Council service. “We will be supporting members to began, “with the opening of the NRC and to to confirm details of the new CET/CPD stay registered and looking to help the new FQEs in June. The feedback we scheme for 2020 and beyond following the members to deliver more CET to colleagues have received has been positive, with upcoming transition year in 2019. Explaining in their local areas,” she concluded. students particularly enthusiastic about the the difference between CET and CPD, Alex NRC facilities. said: “CET promotes the maintenance of CREATING GOOD CONTENT “Since opening of the NRC, we have current competency standards without In her update to members, ABDO head of much more flexibility in when we can run much development or progression from communications, Antonia Chitty, outlined exams and resits,” Miranda continued. “For what we originally learnt as students. the latest social media campaigns, including example, we can now offer FQE resits in “CPD, on the other hand, focuses on for Halloween, and explained how ABDO’s April, and September, alongside the usual enhancement throughout our career. It and ABDO College’s reach was continuing June and winter sittings – so that all focuses on developments in materials and to grow. “We are constantly creating good students can where possible attend technologies – which are not the same information and content for a wide variety graduation with their peers in November.” as when we first graduated. It’s not enough of social media channels including Instagram, Miranda explained that the student revision Facebook and Pinterest,” she told members, adding that the NRC now also had its own social media channel to build its industry reach nationally and locally. Discussing the #NotJustaDO campaign, launched earlier in the year to highlight the wide range of professional practice to other professions and stakeholders, Antonia explained how this collection of case An invitation to Tweet studies showcased the diversity of career Miranda Richardson provides about the day options that members were excelling in. an update on exams

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 29 TAKE-HOME ACTIONS The day’s proceedings were rounded off with feedback from the break-out groups. Some of the key take-home points for the Association from these discussions with members, and from the results of the ongoing ABDO member surveys, included: • Members wish to push the boundaries of their role as dispensing opticians • There needs to be a balance between the professional and clinical aspirations of dispensing opticians and optometrists going forwards • Members have a desire to be more hands-on when it comes to expanding their skills and education – not just via CET A question from board member, Julie Lees • There is a need to attain more recognition for members in practice – event run in the spring of 2018 was very to deliver advice and guidelines such as a both with the public and professional successful and in 2019, the events would via an app, with information being colleagues run on 20 and 21 March at Alton Towers. constantly updated.” • Members would like to know more “Unfortunately for us, the rides will not be The final presentation of the day was by about the services ABDO provides, open at that time,” she added. ABDO board member, Saima Begum Naroo, particularly in relation to the Business With the GOC Education Strategic who outlined the process of conducting a Support Hub and the human resources Review (ESR) nearing conclusion, Miranda clinical audit in practice. “Clinical audit is support that’s available told members that it would be time to about improving services in your practice,” • Members would like to receive more review the ABDO education syllabus once began Saima. “It’s an ongoing process and a guidance on specific employment the learning outcomes of the ESR and CET proven method of quality improvement of issues, including more regular were revealed by the GOC. “This will entail daily practice. It also provides opportunities information in Dispensing Optics a huge amount of work,” she said, “and will for education and training – but primarily • Members would like to see more have implications for the membership.” it’s about improving patient care.” regular information regarding Concluding her presentation, Miranda Explaining how a clinical audit can help membership services and benefits talked about the work ongoing in India, prove that a practice’s clinical services are Australia and Malaysia to deliver ABDO effective, Saima showed members a ‘clinical Speaking after the event, ABDO president, examinations – and appealed for members to audit cycle wheel’, which can help identity Clive Marchant, said: “The consultation day apply to become new examiners in the future. and set targets and standards that need to was a great success. The input from our be specific, measureable, achievable and members has been invaluable and ensures ENCOURAGING BEST PRACTICE relevant to the issue that’s being reviewed. that our future activity and direction of travel In his presentation, ‘Advice and guidelines: a Saima also advised members to set a is in line with members’ needs.” new chapter’, ABDO regional lead, Richard realistic time scale for an audit, along with Rawlinson, began by revealing that some 40 time to measure results at least five or six per cent of members were not currently using months later. For her clinical audit, Saima the Advice and Guidelines section of the ABDO explained that she also undertook a website. Because of this, the Association was literature review to “see what was out there working towards making the section more and gain new learnings”. accessible and deliverable to the membership – Developed by Dudley Local Optical and ensuring it was updated regularly. Committee in 2015, the Healthy Living “We will be separating sections into Optician concept reaches beyond three – advice, guidance and guidelines – to traditional optical services to promote ensure that members understand the education and services such as smoking difference between them and what falls cession, alcohol screening, NHS health under each category,” Richard explained. checks and weight management. “We are also looking at how we deliver our Following in the footsteps of Healthy goals. We have a huge amount of resources Living Pharmacy, the NHS Health Checks within the Association, as well as access to were introduced in optical practices in external resources, and we need to simplify Dudley, to offer advice and signposting. how we deliver information to members. Discussing the success of the scheme, “The new website will help members Saima said future studies needed to look at understand how to carry out their roles,” people taking up these services in an continued Richard, “and communications optical practice to see if they would visit A photocall on the NRC is key to this. We are also looking at ways their GP surgery regularly. roof for the ABDO board

30 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 100% 100% Optical next month will be OPTICAL abuzz with fresh eyewear trends and product premieres Bustle and buzz at ExCel

peaking ahead of the show, at folds as thin as a smartphone, weighs 15g London ExCel from 12-14 and features screwless technology. January, event director, Nathan Pure Optics will be exhibiting Polaris Garnett, said: “Our exhibitor floor rimless eyewear, Staffan Preutz Design and always bustles with product Monkey Glasses brands. There will be new Sdebuts, equipment demos, networking and sustainable Danish designs in the Monkey deals being done. With 30 new exhibitors Glasses collection; the environmentally- on board, 100% Optical 2019 promises to friendly frames are made from materials take this to another level with an even such as biodegradable cotton acetate and wider choice of optical brands to visit.” There’ll be plenty of recycled stainless steel and support launches to celebrate Among the launches will be two new www.savetheorangutan.org products from Shamir including an There will be additional eyewear styles exclusive coating. Targeted at “those excited range of prescription-ready eyewear from Bird, an award-winning sustainable eyewear for spring/summer 2019 on display from Go by innovative technology”, Shamir declared Eyewear, which distributes Ana Hickmann that each of the products “will play company. Bird marries natural materials such as beech and bamboo with aluminium and Eyewear. The new collection will introduce testament to our incredible research, the Duo-Fashion temple, which can be cotton-based acetate, to create high quality development and passion to recreate vision rotated to display different colour and/or sustainable frames. Every pair sold brings for today and tomorrow”. material combinations. clean light to remote communities in Africa Essilor will be launching its new Eyezen The Steel Line collection by Lara D’ will through Bird’s partnership with SolarAid. range of lenses for single vision optimised bring together creativity and quality and Danish eyewear brand Kristian Olsen for people spending hours on multiple devices, will show the use of steel in eyewear in a will be at the show for the first time, which demand different postures and higher new light – the result being a nearly bringing inspired trends from around the eye declination when using a tablet or weightless frame. Fellow Italian brand world. Booth & Bruce will launch its new smartphone and new distances of use. The Safarro will launch the Firenze collection, spring/summer 2019 collection, including company will also showcase 35 new lines from inspired by the geometric designs and five new optical models and six new the Bolon Eyewear collection for women. architecture of ancient Florence with colours sunglasses styles, while Wolf Eyewear Dunelm Optical is celebrating its 50th transmitting reflections of stone and metal. presents its new campaign for the anniversary and will have some anniversary Travelling further north, 100% Optical minimalist White Heat design collection. surprises in store along with complimentary will welcome Frances Klein Paris and its Called Modern Retro the campaign has a birthday treats. Fashion designer Paul range of eyewear designed for “elegant, touch of nostalgia, combining nature and Costelloe will be on the stand on the Sunday exceptional people”. The collection is full of technology in the form of gemstones and to meet customers and talk about the sparkles, shapes and colour and each frame old CRT televisions. inspiration behind his eyewear collection. is customisable with colour, Swarovski Other trends to catch at the show The new Lozza eyewear collection will strass and the design of the embellishment. be launched at the De Rigo stand, alongside include Roav, described as “the world’s British company Eyespace will unveil a new licence brand Mulberry. A vintage cult thinnest folding frame”. Born from a new collection of 15 men’s sunglasses brand, the oldest in Italy, Lozza is strongly kickstarter company in late 2017, Roav is crafted in 100 per cent Japanese titanium in inspired by the 1970s and 80s, presenting now distributed in 30 countries with Bondeye close collaboration with Range Rover’s stylish ranges “encapsulated in history, holding the UK license. This unique product global design team. The all-polarised (NXT) substance and reliability”. collection includes bespoke cast components, tailored hinges and signature SMART AND SUSTAINABLE brand iconography. Finally, Tokai Optical William Morris is introducing Moleskine, “a will be showcasing its 1.76 index lens natural addition to the Moleskine ecosystem options alongside a new Lutina and Wolf of analogue and digital tools that support Cub package for children aged up to 16. everyday life on the move”. William Morris With so many other companies and is the official UK distributor and the collection products on display, it will certainly be includes reading glasses, optical frames worth a trip to the capital to browse and and sunglasses. Identify key trends buy for the year ahead. Register for the Keeping with the eco theme will be a for 2019 show at www.100percentoptical.com

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 31 CHARITY Lee Davis looks back on a decade supporting and volunteering with Vision Aid Overseas

Have suitcase, will travel

was first inspired to joined Vision a new vision centre when some Aid Overseas (VAO) more than 10 optometrists taught refraction, I taught years ago when I got talking to dispensing and glazing, and another person some VAO staff at an ABDO taught business skills. conference where the charity had a On another assignment, we combined Istand in the exhibition. I had heard of outreach with helping to set up a low vision VAO before then, of course, but had not clinic. I have helped with stock taking and yet taken the leap into volunteering. sorting at vision centres and have been part I had always wanted to travel, and so of an optical conference. Lee and a patient with I have now completed 15 assignments being able to do this whilst helping those in her new spectacles need was a huge incentive to getting involved. since I first joined VAO, and have helped at Shortly afterwards, I become a member and and glaze. Years later, I heard that one of many training days. I have also received a applied to attend a training day. Within a the people we trained was now training trustees’ award for my contribution to the charity, which literally left me speechless. couple of months, VAO was in contact to others. As soon as I returned, I signed up to invite me to join a team on assignment. volunteer again. I had spent two weeks SUSTAINABILITY IN FOCUS meeting new people and seeing new places Since 2008, I have seen some changes take FIRST ASSIGNMENT NERVES and I couldn’t wait to do it again. place within the charity and its My first assignment took place in June During the assignment, I met and had programmes. When I started, outreach was 2008. I was part of a large team that was the pleasure of working with an amazing divided into two: one half carrying out the main assignment. Since then there has deputy team leader, Karen. She said that training at a new vision centre that was been a change to a more sustainable type she thought that I would make a good opening and the other doing outreach work. of assignment. deputy and that when she next led a team, At that time, VAO was still very much using Staffed by local people, vision centres she wanted me to join her. One year later, second-hand spectacles. Teams would go to are where local people can access that’s exactly what I did. Africa and carry out large numbers of eye affordable eyecare. Each includes separate Before becoming a deputy, there is extra exams and then provide refurbished areas for refraction, dispensing and training provided by VAO. They teach you second-hand spectacles. manufacture. When they first started up, UK the skills you need to successfully work with, Dispensing on outreach programmes was volunteer optometrists taught refraction to and lead, a team. The second assignment was amazing, and I could easily see hundreds of staff such as ophthalmic nurses. In more all outreach and we had an amazing time. I patients in one day. Watching the smiles, recent years, university courses have been was also able to donate some equipment to being part of a team and making a real established to teach optometry directly. I an ophthalmologist who didn’t have an difference to so many people was wonderful. have trained ‘dispensers’ to work in the ophthalmoscope or retinoscope. When the first week was completed, we vision centres and staff to glaze spectacles. travelled to Livingstone for the weekend. It After this, I became a team leader. I Part of the vision centre approach is to was great to let our hair down after a very have taken part in many different types of provide a base; a hub and spoke structure. busy and intense first week. On the second assignments since then. Some have been The optometrist/refractionist goes into the week I switched with the other dispensing solely teaching, and one involved setting up community to carry out eye exams and optician on the team to teach at the vision centre. I really didn’t feel confident about doing this – but once I met the staff and started sharing my own skills with them, I realised it was just as rewarding as the outreach work. Initially, I couldn’t see myself as being able to ‘teach’ anyone anything. But in reality, I was just showing another person what I did on a daily basis at work. I Donating equipment Lee and fellow volunteers explained how to dispense, use a focimeter

32 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Patients waiting to be seen at a vision centre Setting up a dispensing area Lee with patients then brings the prescription and chosen first time in 2017 with a team who rotated has become just as much a part of their lives frame back to the vision centre for glazing. between outreach and teaching low vision. as it has mine. My husband takes charge People have asked me why recycled We ran it for the second time earlier this while I go off; with a little help, of course. spectacles are not used now. My year and delegates were either trained Assignments can be hard work but mostly it understanding is that to produce the high- ophthalmic staff or optometry graduates. is a chance to meet new people and I have quality spectacles that VAO provided, they made some good friends along the way. It’s a would have to undergo a great deal of RAISING FUNDS AND AWARENESS chance to really make a difference to cleaning, focimetry and replacement of end When you go on an assignment, you agree people’s lives, experience new things, see tips and nose pads. They were then packaged to make a donation to VAO and you are different ways of life, taste new foods and up and shipped to the country where import expected to fundraise for this. Some people share your skills and experiences with others. tax would have to be paid. All of these do pay for it themselves, but by fundraising I love being part of VAO and would things mount up. It is, in fact, cheaper to you are raising awareness of the charity encourage everyone who has thought about provide a new pair of spectacles. And isn’t as well. it to become a member and find out more by that better? It is certainly more sustainable In 2009, I took part in a 10Km run in attending one of the training days being held to teach a person how to provide spectacles. London; this was a huge challenge for me as in London, or Birmingham. Visit www.vision Teaching people the trade ensures that long a person who would barely run for a bus. I aidoverseas.org/training-courses for details. after our volunteers leave, it is possible to have also abseiled down the Harlow water continue to provide affordable spectacles to tower, and held quiz nights and meals out LEE DAVIS FBDO qualified as a the local people. to raise money for VAO. This year I was rehabilitation officer for the visually In addition to teaching refraction and fortunate enough to receive a bursary from impaired (ROVI) in 2016. She has worked dispensing, I have recently been involved in ABDO towards my assignment donation. in multiple and independent practices training low vision skills to optometry The Association contributed £500 on my over the years, as well as a low vision technologists in Zambia. I have found this behalf, and for this I am very thankful. practitioner in both hospital and practice. really interesting as it is something that I I started going on assignments when my She currently works for Hertfordshire am very passionate about. This ran for the children were four and 11 years old and it County Council as a ROVI.

VAO EXPANDS BOARD through its projects in the vision and eye health sector for individuals and nations AND PROGRAMMES where affordability and access to eye exams Vision Aid Overseas (VAO) has welcomed and glasses can often be a barrier to vision five new trustees to its board, including and development outcomes.” new chair Professor Nora Colton, Also joining the VAO board are: Professor expanding its number to 12. Hannah Faal, a retired ophthalmologist Professor Colton takes over as chair recognised worldwide as one of the founding from David Scott-Ralphs, who has stepped partners of the Vision 2020 initiative; down from his role after six years. She is optometrist, Ian Davies; independent currently director of education at UCL consultant, Ronnie Graham; and Stephen Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Thompson, who has worked in international Eye Hospital where she oversees the development for the past decade. Annie, one of VAO’s overseas beneficiaries development of a joint education strategy Nicola Chevis, VAO chief executive to offer world leading education in vision officer, commented: “We are thrilled to health programmes – and the experience of and eye health. welcome each of our new trustees to our our new trustees will be crucial in helping to Professor Colton said: “I am very excited board, especially at this exciting time as we shape these developments. We are excited to join Vision Aid Overseas as a trustee and look to expand our work. In the coming year, to work with them to advance the chair. Vision Aid Overseas is a dynamic we are focusing on scaling up our existing organisation in the coming years, bringing organisation that is making a lasting difference programmes and establishing our child eye eyecare to everyone, everywhere.”

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 33 BUSINESS We should be learning TALK new things every day, writes Nick Walsh

Every day’s a school day

omething happened recently that surprised me greatly. The surprise was driven by the fact that I was simply doing what I always do, which was taking Stime to engage with the people around me. I have a chat with the baristas at my local coffee shop every time I’m in there. We’re on first name terms and they already know my coffee preferences and I possibly know more about their lives, hopes and aspirations than some of their friends do. A friend recently joined me at the coffee shop and, observing our exchanges, said: “You’re really nice to people.” Is it so odd and so difficult to be ‘nice’? This also drove us to discuss why some people may see being nice as a weakness in business, and other perceived weaknesses that can, in Seeking support from others is a great strength fact, help us in business and in life. Surely, curiosity is just a thirst for knowledge. make decisions for you, but they can certainly BE HUMBLE We should be learning new things every help to broaden your thinking and options; My ‘enquiring mind’ and questions always day, be that through actively studying, they can act as a sounding board, raise issues come from a position of humility. But surely researching, reading, watching a documentary, you may not have thought of and alleviate humility is a weakness in the business world? listening to a podcast, speaking with any concerns you may have. I’d argue that’s not so. Some people who colleagues – or simply chatting to a barista. Going back to humility: what about have achieved a level of success may feel Just because we are no longer at school or reverse mentoring? Reverse mentoring can that they’ve ‘made it’ and have finally got college doesn’t mean that we can’t learn or re-energise you by providing an input of their long-deserved rewards and respect. discover something today and every day. energy and ideas from a motivated younger There is a risk though that if this feeling is person. Reverse mentoring can also be not checked, it can lead to complacency, SEEK SUPPORT valuable as mentor and mentee end up with arrogance and failure. Such an individual may Would you challenge an ‘expert’ if they asked a greater understanding of another take credit for your own success and forget for support from others who may be more team/person and the challenges they face. all of the support and guidance they have experienced or knowledgeable? Surely they For others, it can mean getting a received along the way. They lack humility. should know if they are the expert? I guess completely different perspective from For me, humility means that I’m eager this goes hand in hand with humility. Being someone outside of their organisation. to hear more and continue to learn and able to seek support from others is a great Mentors feel that their feedback is grow. I like to think that I’m open to new strength as it requires the ability to recognise valued and well received, which encourages ideas and thoughts; I don’t mind if someone when support will help a situation – be it them to be as honest as possible. Quite a wishes to challenge my ideas and thoughts. encouragement, validation, endorsement, few people also say they enjoy getting to I’ll admit when I’m wrong and if I don’t knowledge or skills. know someone who they wouldn’t have know something you’ll hear a reply of, “I Support can take many guises in life such normally engaged with at work who gave don’t know, but I’ll find out”. as coaching, mentoring, tuition and so on. them a completely different perspective. Mentoring is a great example. The most So: be humble, be curious, seek support. BE CURIOUS obvious benefit of having a mentor is learning It may help you both professionally ‘Curiosity killed the cat’ is a proverb warning from their real-life experiences. You can and personally. of the dangers of unnecessary investigation or access their first-hand knowledge of how to experimentation. Why would curiosity and a overcome professional challenges and make NICK WALSH FBDO is ABDO sector skills hunger for knowledge be seen as a weakness? difficult business decisions. Your mentor won’t development officer.

34 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 Frequently asked questions answered by Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL

CONCERNS ABOUT MISPLACED RECORDS The query this month is a subject that everyone will relate to: lost records. Our member’s query was a little more complicated. He is a locum contact lens optician (CLO) for a small group of opticians and they have a problem with retaining staff. Optical assistants or receptionists seem to come and go with alarming frequency, resulting in very poor support for the locum CLO who has worked in the practice for many years. Consequently, the number of records that are Lost patient records can lead to complications misplaced is becoming a real problem. What makes it worse is the rather cavalier attitude of the practice manager, who anyone checking that the patient’s welfare was being cared Kim Devlin simply shrugs and says: “What can I do?” for. This particular query was a little more serious when is chair of Our member had very real concerns that he might be poorly trained staff were careless in their duty of filing and ABDO’s held responsible by the General Optical Council for failing the manager was making no effort to correct the situation. to maintain proper records when the (paper) records were It would be a shame if the locum CLO was so disillusioned Advice and lost so frequently. He tries to remember as much as by the situation that he felt compelled to leave the practice, Guidelines possible from previous appointments, but one day he fears although that is the ultimate sanction he has. It does little Working he will forget something clinically vital. to benefit the patients in his care though, when a new Group I did feel for this member. We have all misplaced practitioner would have even less information to work with. records but a serious hunt usually results in them surfacing I advised that the member wrote formally to the owners in a most unlikely place. If a record is indeed lost forever, a of the practice, copying in the manager, explaining the trawl through past invoices and referral letters make a seriousness of the situation and seeking help and support. duplicate copy a reasonable starting point. What lenses There might well be no action as a result of the letter but the were supplied, when they were supplied and advice given, owner has a responsibility of care as well, especially if the can all be noted and carefully marked that the original was company is a registered body corporate, and should be made lost and the resulting records were compiled from memory aware that their employees are not maintaining standards. and other documentation held by the practice. It is a long This sort of ‘whistleblowing’ would make our member far and tedious task but must be done. from popular within the practice and, indeed, his position may An audit would show the problem but also the effort be untenable – but that is a risk he must take if the situation gone into replacing them, which in itself would reassure is to be rectified and the standards of care maintained.

Past FAQs are available for reference on the ABDO website at http://www.abdo.org.uk/frequently-asked-questions

Member benefits in brief Are you an employee? Do you have your own professional indemnity insurance?

Many employers offer professional indemnity insurance (PII) • As a DO or CLO there may be occasions when you to their qualified staff as part of their employment package – offer advice to a member of the public whilst not at but did you know you should also have your own PII? work. If, for example, you are approached by a Here are three situations when you may not be covered concerned patient who recognises you whilst by employer PII: shopping, any advice given during this interaction • PII is often implemented at the discretion of your may not be insured through your employer’s PII. employer. If, for example, a you are a qualified and • PII offered through an employer may only cover you registered dispensing optician (DO) or contact lens to work in a specific practice, so if you are required optician (CLO) and you use your best judgement to occasionally cover elsewhere you may also find when giving clinical or dispensing advice to a patient that the insurance is void. that is outside of company policy, you may find that Login to the ABDO website Members’ Area to check if your employer’s PII does not offer any cover should a you have taken out PII. It’s easy to add it to your membership worst-case scenario happen. and costs less than you might think.

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 35 JOTTINGS Now fully qualified in MECS, Daryl Newsome shares his first two patient cases in practice

Going with the flow

o, I think it was the Greek philosopher Epicurus felt a little glow of pride and moved on to my next who commented on the states of emotion at appointment. work. The level of skill and the level of Whilst chatting to my support staff, Kate and Jane, challenge determine which situation will immediately afterwards, they showed me the superb triage prevail; apathy and boredom are created when support documentation the team had put in place. We Syour abilities and skills are not challenged. If your work discussed how the MECS appointments were being demands skills beyond your abilities, anxiety and stress signposted to us and from where: lots were coming from are created. When your work is challenging and your the local hospital and local GP surgeries, which was how it skills, ability and time are sufficient to resolve the should be. challenge, a state known as ‘flow’ is created. You feel I was particularly interested in how they were good, useful and content. identifying cases involving the anterior eye (and so landing So, as you may have read in my past two Jottings in my appointments book) and which cases were retinal articles, we did the Wales Optometry Postgraduate and posterior and so going to our optometrists, Andrew, Education Centre (WOPEC) minor eye conditions services Kate and Jody. It was soon apparent that it depended who (MECS) and glaucoma refinement training, we took the answered the phone. If Anita answered the phone, it exams, and we passed the exams. To then register to seemed it was always something more complex than if provide MECS in my area, we had to get an enhanced Karen or Vanessa answered the phone. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, we had to Then the phone rang, as I hope it always will, and Anita attend a compulsory MECS introduction evening, and then picked up the call. I was standing nearby but absorbed by as contact lens opticians (CLOs) we needed to get the extra the laying off for the workshop so wasn’t paying close insurance cover from ABDO (a bargain at £20). I completed attention. Anita put the call on hold, came over to me and all the tasks and signed all the relevant paperwork the night told me the gentleman on the phone was complaining that before MECS was launched in my area, and then I went his eye was bleeding, and had been doing so every morning away to Asia for two weeks. for the last two weeks. Could someone look at it?

PREPPED AND PRIMED BLOODY INTERESTING CASE On my return, my amazing practice team had been through I have worked in optical practices since I was 14 – so that’s the teething problems of implementing a new system 40 years – and I have never seen anyone’s eye bleed before, without me. In true team spirit, on the day of my return, so I was sceptical. But in my 11am patient was my first MECS appointment (my true logical fashion, Anita colleagues had kindly allowed two hours before the pointed out: “If the blood is appointment so I could prepare). coming out of the front of Was my first MECS patient one of the first 10 NHS his eye then it’s not retinal.” funded CLO MECS appointments in the country, I wondered? So, my second MECS My training with ABDO, my ongoing CET training and all of appointment on my first the professional development activities I have involved day back was duly booked in myself with leading up to this moment, gave me the for 1pm. confidence that I could do what needed to be done; and my At 1pm precisely, my colleague Andrew, a MECS qualified optometrist, being just second MECS patient next door helped bolster my confidence even further. arrived: a truly articulate, So, after examining my first MECS patient I identified a intelligent gentleman who case of anterior allergic conjunctivitis. I referred him to the introduced himself by name local pharmacy for allergy drops and scheduled a follow-up and explained what he was phone call to ensure all had gone well. I felt really satisfied there for. He was directed to that I had saved the patient time and the expense of travel, my consulting room – and I the local GP surgery at least one appointment, and maybe Daryl’s second MECS could not have wished for a even the hospital eye service an appointment to manage patient captures a photo of better patient. The first something we are more than equipped and trained to do. I his bloody eye at home thing he did was show me

36 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 on his phone what his eye had looked like that morning service. Andrew and I both reassured him we thought this when he woke up. It was essentially a crusted, bloody mess. was not something bigger than an erosion laceration, which However, as he stood before me, it looked fine. How many with good lubrication and time should self-rectify. We times do I suggest to my patients that if it doesn’t look arranged a follow-up appointment for two weeks and gave right, take a photo. advice regarding daytime and night time eye drops/ The next few minutes were a few minutes I will never, ointments. I hope we have saved many agencies many ever forget. We talked about history and symptoms, etc, appointment times. and having previously discussed potential differential Forty years in optics, 30 years qualified, and this was diagnoses with Andrew, I was looking for crusting, scabbing the first time this year such an experience had been in my and basal cell carcinoma. I was elated to say none of the comfort zone. ABDO has to be commended for providing former were evident. initial training, continuing education and training, continuing However, just then he rubbed his eye and, as if by the professional development, and specific courses. Our power of Hollywood, his eye socket filled with blood. The professional body has given me the right skills, training and anterior chamber was not involved but this was like a support to allow me to deal with such a case in practice. subconjunctival haemorrhage in appearance that all but This is something I think is worthy of recognition, and so to cleared on blinking, with blood epiphora (I really did look all those people doing so much behind the scenes – thank for the hidden camera). you. I truly worked in the ‘flow’ that day. Lid eversion, combined with a history of meibomian gland cysts, disclosed what I would describe as a meibomian DARYL NEWSOME FBDO R CL SMC(TECH) is a member gland blockage with a raised point. Blink and dry eye had of the ABDO National Clinical Committee, an ABDO broken surface vesicles, in the absence of pigment, with board member and an ABDO College trustee. He is a scabbing and simple bleeding. It was very dramatic. partner at Newsome Opticians in Devon, and has been I found Andrew had five minutes to spare, so I told him involved with ABDO over many years, examining my opinion and we both had another look at the gentleman, nationally and internationally and tutoring exam who was enormously grateful for such a fast and reassuring preparation studies at home and abroad.

WHAT YOU SAID ABOUT: SICK PAY weeks. Employers do not have to pay employees for absences of less than four days duration. Emma Siers, ABDO HR consultant, rounds up the Some employers may provide CSP, which can be results of ABDO’s recent survey of members whatever the employer chooses it to be, providing it is at regarding sick pay least as generous as SSP and clearly defined in the contract of employment or other supporting documentation such as We asked members a staff handbook. CSP would normally incorporate SSP and whether or not they not be in addition to it. received sick pay: 53.33 Whatever your company’s approach to sick pay, it is per cent said ‘Yes’ and important that it is clearly defined and that all employees 46.67 per cent said ‘No’. know what the reporting requirements are in order to Does this really mean that qualify for sick pay, and that decisions regarding sick pay some employers don’t pay are consistent and not subjective. any sick pay at all? Does it mean that they don’t pay ABDO HR SERVICE company sick pay? Or is it The ABDO HR service offers pragmatic advice and that employees responding assistance to members. Under ‘Expertise and additional had not had any sickness Emma Siers support’ in the ABDU Business Support Hub, members absences that would can access: qualify for sick pay? We suspect that the reality is a • Practical ‘How to’ guidelines, for how to deal with combination of the above and, therefore, thought it generic employment issues in a way that is legally would be useful for employers and employees, if we were compliant and best practice to clarify the situation on sick pay entitlement. • A number of standard documents that can be

downloaded and amended to suit your needs SICK PAY BASICS • If you have an employment issue that is not There are two types of sick pay: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) covered in the ‘How to’ guidelines, you can contact and Company Sick Pay (CSP). All employees are eligible for our adviser by telephone or email SSP providing they meet the required criteria of earning at

least £116 per week and comply with the employer’s The ABDO HR Services advice line is available Monday to ABDO survey process for notifying sickness absence. Friday (Bank Holidays excluded) 9.00am to 5:30pm. SSP is currently £92.05 per week, and is paid from day Telephone Emma Siers on 020 7298 5105 or email four of any period of sickness absence for a maximum of 28 [email protected]

Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 37 Jobs & notices

REGISTERED DISPENSING OPTICIAN Calling all students..... Whitby & Co, 29 Fleet Street, London EC4Y 1AA CLASSIFIEDS The ABDO National Clinical £25,000 - £35,000 a year commensurate with experience Committee is looking for Full time Monday to Friday 8.45am to 5.30pm student representation on We are an independent, well- established practice seeking its committee a registered, experienced DO to join our strong team. Career prospects excellent as part of a growing team. If you would like to work alongside FBDO Our ideal candidate will be dynamic, ambitious and able members on projects that are taking our to use their initiative, creative and confident in delivering Association forward and future proofing exceptional customer service. our profession then we would like to hear Candidate should be experienced, with a minimum from you. The role will involve working 3 years’ dispensing experience and in-house glazing with professionals who are at the top of experience would be helpful. their game in paediatrics, contact lenses, Benefits: Personal development opportunities and low vision and general dispensing. You will promotion encouraged. be invited to join us in our exciting, If you think this is your kind of job, please send your CV to thought provoking and active projects, we [email protected]. Alternatively call Gillian Whitby on need your opinions from a student’s point 07768220007 References essential. of view. Travel expenses will be covered. If you are interested, or would like to discuss further, please contact Barry Duncan at [email protected]

WHAT’S NEW ON EYECARE FAQ Coming up in December on Eyecare FAQ we will be hosting our annual eyecareFAQ Charity Advent. Each year, we highlight smaller vision- focused charities in the UK. Visit EyecareFAQ on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, check out the charities and follow their social media channel. Sharing their work costs only a few seconds of your time. This month we will also be sharing new research on Christmas party season make-up mistakes alongside a new infographic. The campaign will also be going out to the consumer press, highlighting minor eye conditions services (MECS) as the place to go for anyone with sore, red eyes. What’s your story? Backing up the Christmas campaign, Dispensing Optics is always on the lookout December sees a new series of images for interesting stories from members for you to share about MECS and a new about life and work in practice, in primary Today’s chosen charity jargon buster demystifying terms used care, training and/or education. to talk about children’s eyecare. For example, are you doing something If you missed last month’s content, interesting and inspirational in paediatric check back on the eyecareFAQ page for 1 www.aniridia.org.uk eyecare, fashion, design, low vision, contact an infographic and jargon buster about lenses, education and/or training? contact lenses as well as a new series Festive Glad Tidings! #EyecareFAQCharityAdvent Would you like to contribute to a Jottings, of images to share about keratoconus. Through the Pinhole or CLO Corner feature? Why not use this information as the Or perhaps an Opinion piece, or a Letter to basis for a blog post, or share on your the Editor. practice website and social media channels? Find questions and answers on Then please do get in touch. more eyecare and eyewear topics at www.abdo.org.uk/information-for- Email your proposals and ideas to managing the-public/eyecarefaq editor, Nicky Collinson, on You can find eyecareFAQ on the ABDO website, Facebook, Twitter, [email protected] Pinterest and Instagram. or telephone 0781 273 4717.

To place an advert, telephone 0781 273 4717 or email [email protected] Booking deadline for the January issue is Wednesday 28 November. Special rate for ABDO members

38 Dispensing Optics DECEMBER 2018 abdo COLLEGE

APPLICATIONS CLOSING SOON

Develop your professional skills Low Vision Honours Course An opportunity to develop your professional skills and help others Due to changing demographics the demand for specialist low vision services is steadily increasing. By enhancing your low vision skills you can greatly help others, which is both valuable and extremely rewarding. The Low Vision Honours Course includes the theory and practical aspects of low vision consultation and fully prepares candidates for the ABDO Level 6 FBDO (Hons) LVA examinations. Distance learning assignments are complemented by a short block release at ABDO College to reinforce practical skills and routine.

• Course commences: January 2019 • Method: Blended learning • Entry requirements: ABDO Level 6 Fellowship Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing (FBDO) and GOC registration • Duration: 25 weeks • Block release accommodation can be provided

Application deadline: 7th December 2018

For further information and application forms for this and other courses, or to request a copy of the ABDO College Prospectus, please contact the ABDO College Courses Team on 01227 738 829 (Option 1) or email [email protected]

ABDO College Operational Services, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT www.abdocollege.org.uk

KEEPING EXCELLENCE IN YOUR SIGHTS MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR ABDO MEMBERSHIP

ARE YOU TAKING FULL ADVANTAGE OF WHAT’S ON OFFER?

NETWORKING AND EDUCATION

our ABDO membership provides a comprehensive range of Ybenefits and services that can assist you in both your personal and professional life. Indeed, your annual subscription fee can easily PROFESSIONAL be subsidised by the savings that are on offer and available to you. SERVICES ABDO MEMBER BENEFITS INCLUDE: BENEFIT • Professional indemnity Insurance • 17% off worldwide attraction tickets SPOTLIGHT • Personal accident cover • NUS extra - Student Discounts Card NETWORKING AND EDUCATION ABDO CET • Helplines - FREE 24-hour service • Save 20% on Columbus Direct travel insurance policies • CET ABDO CET interprets the GOC • Get the latest Mobile phones on registrant CET requirements to the • Dispensing Optics the best rates available from EE benefit of ABDO members, with a • Cashback on everyday purchases • Great savings on a wide range view to enhancing their clinical • 25% saving off your current home of Apple products and professional skills. insurance • Membership of the International The department continues to be • 10% saving off your current car Opticians Association the leading provider of continuing insurance education for dispensing opticians • Advice and Guidelines as well as offering members advice • Member benefit plans with HMCA Go to abdo.org.uk for details and CET support for re-registration. • Savings on all your travel needs • Access to an exclusive network of Terms and conditions apply to some benefits - see the website for more details. ABDO Membership over 2,800 health clubs, gyms and Benefits is managed and run on behalf of ABDO leisure centres by Parliament Hill Ltd.

Association of British Dispensing Opticians