Dispensing Optics October 2021

NEWS, INFORMATION AND EDUCATION FOR OPTICIANS

OCTOBER 2021

OCTOBER 2021

contents features 12.

News Focus Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool

14.

CET – C-78714 Are people with low vision effectively identified for support by dispensing opticians?

By Jayshree Vasani

20.

14.

A specialised skill. Bifocal dispensing: a forgotten skill?

By Fiona Anderson

22.

12.

CET MCAs – C-77953

In practice How low can you go?

By Antonia Chitty

24.

Profile Welcome on board

26.

Report Empowering the patient

By Dr Elizabeth Bartlam

regulars 13.

22.

7. stay in touch

Front Cover

DO Online DO Twitter DO Instagram ABDO Facebook ABDO Twitter ABDO LinkedIn

5.

DO Dispatches

6.

From the Holmes front

6.

News

13.

Product spotlight

27.

Region update

28.

Jottings

29.

Business Bites Eyecare FAQ OA Corner

30.

Notices

Image courtesy of SeeAbility

OCTOBER 2021 DISPENSING OPTICS

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Sign up now for our Lifestyle fall campaign where Rodenstock offers you and your patients a free upgrade to better vision.

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To find out more about promotional and business building support topics from Rodenstock, please contact your Regional Lens Manager or Customer Service T: 01474 531112 E: customer.service@rodenstock.co.uk

DISPENSING OPTICS The Professional Journal of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians Volume 36 No 10

DO Dispatches

EDITORIAL STAFF Publisher Editor Email Assistant Editor Email Design and Production Email Admin. Manager Email

Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) ncollinson@abdo.org.uk Jane Burnand jburnand@abdo.org.uk Duncan Taylor-Jones dtaylor-jones@abdo.org.uk Deanne Gray HonFBDO dgray@abdo.org.uk

EDITORIAL/ADVERTISING Telephone Email Website

0781 2734717 ncollinson@abdo.org.uk www.abdo.org.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS UK Overseas

£150 £175, including postage

Apply to:

Edward Fox FBDO Association of British Dispensing Opticians Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DT

Telephone Email Website

01227 733911 efox@abdo.org.uk www.abdo.org.uk

ABDO CPD Head of CPD

Alexandra Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA ABDO CPD, Unit 2, Court Lodge Offices, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT

Telephone Email

01206 734155 abdocpd@abdo.org.uk

CONTINUING EDUCATION REVIEW PANEL Josie Barlow FBDO CL Keith Cavaye FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Andrew Cripps FBDO PG Cert HE FHEA Kim Devlin FBDO (Hons) CL Stephen Freeman BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) Cert Ed Claire McDonnell FAOI Angela McNamee BSc (Hons) MCOptom FBDO (Hons) CL FBCLA Cert Ed Alex Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA Gaynor Whitehouse FBDO (Hons) LVA EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Nicky Collinson BA (Hons) Antonia Chitty MA MCOptom MCIPR Alex Webster MSc PGDipE FBDO CL FHEA FBCLA Max Halford FBDO CL Debbie McGill BA (Hons) Sir Anthony Garrett CBE HonFBDO Jo Holmes FBDO DISPENSING OPTICS IS PUBLISHED BY ABDO, Unit 2, Court Lodge Offices, Godmersham Park, Godmersham, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7DT Dispensing Optics is printed by P&P Litho Ltd, Ashford, Middlesex TW15 1AB

REUNION AT THE NRC It has been a very long while since ABDO held an in-person event with members – so we are particularly looking forward to our upcoming Consultation Day with members on Sunday 21 November at the National Resource Centre (NRC), Birmingham.

Despite staging a very successful and well attended online Consultation Day last year, the opportunity to gather face-to-face to discuss the critical issues of the day is very welcome indeed.

The Consultation Day is your chance to put questions to the board and heads of departments, catch up with fellow members and hear about our focus and strategies going forwards. We will begin the day with the ABDO and ABDO Benevolent Fund annual meetings, with presentations to follow. There will be stringent infection prevention and control measures in place, so please don't hesitate to book your place via the ABDO Events page. The event will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.

Next month, we welcome to the profession the latest cohort of newly qualified dispensing opticians during our Graduation and Prizegiving Ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral. This normally annual event is always a highlight in the ABDO calendar, and we offer our warmest congratulations to all those who have successfully passed their examinations during such challenging times. A host of exciting opportunities await each and every new graduate, and we will be sharing these with you over the coming months.

On a final note, we are aware that a significant number of members have not yet acquired – or accepted – their required CET points ahead of the 31 December deadline.

Please make time to visit the General Optical Council MyGOC portal to check your status – particularly with regards to interactive CET – and then visit the ABDO website for all the latest CET opportunities.

Sir Anthony Garrett ABDO general secretary

© ABDO: No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means whatever without the written prior permission of the publishers 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: 8,848 copies (January to June 2020) ABDO Board certification

OCTOBER 2021 DISPENSING OPTICS

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OUR MONTHLY COLUMN FROM THE ABDO PRESIDENT JO HOLMES FBDO

From the Holmes front LOW VISION:

We cannot be complacent t is estimated there are about two million people living with sight loss in the UK today. The difficulties they experience range from reading a newspaper to severe visual impairment. Within this number, visual impairment affects about 10 per cent of those aged 65 to 75, and 20 per cent aged 75 and over.

Age-related eye In 2017, there were just shy of 12 problems on the rise million people aged 65 years and over.

Indeed, a 2016 government survey, titled 'The future of an ageing population', predicted that by 2040, nearly one in seven people would be aged 75 and over. As eye health care providers, we cannot ignore these statistics.

Before the pandemic, low vision services throughout the UK were inconsistent; some countries provide this in secondary care, some via charities and others by community optical practices.

The Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning (CCEHC) in England recently conducted a survey highlighting the need for change. It recommended that low vision services be included in system recovery and transformation planning. As dispensing opticians, low vision is one our core competencies so we are well placed to help with this.

We can help patients to live independently at home by providing advice on lighting, adaptations, low vision aids and IT. If this service is available in local communities, it will not only be easily accessible for the patient but it will also free capacity in secondary care in some areas.

ABDO has been working with CCEHC in England and together, we have asked NHS England to consider the results of the aforementioned survey with a view to delivering a national low vision service within England. We are also working with the Scottish government on implementing a national low vision service and are happy to see more DOs in Wales participating in their national low vision service.

I urge you and your practice team to update yourselves with all the latest information, and get involved if there is a low vision service in your area. There are many CPD articles and webinars available, along with advice about business models that your practice can benefit from.

We cannot be complacent; we all have the knowledge, location and means we need to make a difference for people with low vision.

I

Jo Holmes FBDO President of ABDO

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DISPENSING OPTICS OCTOBER 2021

NEWS Sally scoops Silmo prize Congratulations to ABDO member, Sally Spurrett, who at the time of going to press was preparing to head out to Silmo Paris after winning the 2021 ABDO Silmo Competition.

Prizewinner, Sally Spurrett Sally, who helps run her family's independent practice Spurrett Bespoke Opticians in Kendal, Cumbria, said: "I absolutely love Silmo for discovering new niche, unique eyewear and for creating fresh ideas to take back home to practice.

I haven’t been able to visit for a long time due to study and then Covid-19 – and so after a few very challenging years it is wonderful to have the opportunity to go again."

Sally has held every job in the family practice – from reception to optical assistant to dispensing optician and now pre-reg optometrist after completing the conversion course at Bradford University. Her prize included two return economy flights from a UK airport to Paris, two nights’ B&B at a four-star hotel, and VIP passes to the show.

Big elections turnout The recent ABDO board elections, which saw the biggest turnout in many years, see Gill Bickle and Joshua Smith join the Association's board of directors for the first time.

Julie Lees is reelected to serve another three-year term, while Peter Black re-joins after having previously served as a board member and then president.

Tony Garrett, ABDO general secretary, said: " I am delighted to welcome two new board members – Gill Bickle and Joshua Smith – following this year's round of elections.

In addition, Peter Black returns to the board after a brief interlude, and Julie Lees continues into a

second term. I am sure they will all make a significant contribution to the future of the Association.

"This year’s election saw the biggest turnout for many years, and clearly reflected the interest caused by such a large field of candidates with a diverse spread of interests and experience," added Tony.

Gill, Joshua, Peter and Julie will serve alongside current board members: Saima Begum, Lorraine Bleasdale, Kevin Gutsell, Jo Holmes (president) and Daryl Newsome (vice president).

Turn to page 24 to learn more about the newest and returning ABDO board members.

OCTOBER 2021 First easy read guide to eye strain SeeAbility has launched an easy read guide about eye strain for practitioners and people with learning disabilities.

The first easy read guide of its kind specifically about screen use and looking after your eyes, the factsheet shares important messages around eye health care and the use of computers, tablets and phones during the pandemic.

According to the sight loss charity, people with learning disabilities are 10 times more likely to have sight loss than the rest of the population, and are increasingly using screens to stay connected and find new hobbies.

The factsheet promotes the 20-20-20 rule, advising people to look away from their screens every 20 minutes, at something that is 20 feet away, for 20 seconds. It’s also designed to support eyecare professionals in their conversations with people with learning disabilities.

Download the factsheeet at https://bit.ly/3gT5mv8. SeeAbility also produces easy read information about eye tests, wearing glasses and eye conditions at https://bit.ly/3mPHlJj

SeeAbility shares screen time insights

Sector knowledge hub planned ABDO is supporting a new Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education (SPOKE) initiative, commissioned by the General Optical Council (GOC), to facilitate knowledgeled collaborations within the optical sector to meet the GOC's updated requirements for qualification approval.

With the College of Optometrists as lead partner, SPOKE will also be supported by the Optometry Schools Council (OSC) and bodies from across the sector to deliver projects, online resources and networking activities.

BACK IN THE ROOM: 100% OPTICAL

Registration is in full swing for 100% Optical 2022, which will be the UK's first major optical event since the start of the global pandemic.

The three-day show at the ExCeL London from 22 to 24 January will offer a host of new features designed to attract delegates back – including a strong focus on optics and the environment.

ABDO will be present at the show with CET/CPD and more, including a session on sustainability.

The Association of Optometrists will deliver CPD content, alongside thousands of products on the show floor. Key features include: a Future Practice Hub; a Dispensing Workshop to experience making and fitting frames; a Design Arcade housing the latest eyewear trends;

and live catwalk shows.

The second Love Eyewear Awards will celebrate eyewear designers, manufacturers and retailers. Entries open on 18 October with 12 categories including New Designer, Eyewear Retailer of the Year, Luxury Frame of the Year, Kids Eyewear of the Year, and Most Engaging Practice Window. The show will also celebrate Love Eyewear Week (7-23 January 2022).

Nathan Garnett, 100% Optical show director, commented: “100% Optical 2022 is a time for whole the industry to once again get together to network and celebrate the optical sector after an incredibly turbulent time. We’re also in the midst of launching a one-stop, handy show guide in the form of an app as we pledge to be more sustainable in the current climate.”

Register on the all-new 100% Optical website at www.100percentoptical.com

The Knowledge Hub/Information Exchange will be a resource for programme leaders, academic staff, module coordinators, supervisors and practicebased staff/employers and sector businesses. It will support the academic community in their design and development of qualifications, said the regulator, to meet its outcomes and standards, and further support practices and sector businesses in their role as placement providers within the new qualifications.

The hub's first project will be to develop sector-led, co-produced indicative guidance to supplement the GOC Outcomes for Registration. SPOKE will recruit expert volunteers from across

the sector to support the hub steering group in undertaking this work.

Alistair Bridge, ABDO head of strategy, commented: “‘I am delighted that the sector’s bid to set up and run the new optical knowledge and education hub has been successful.

"As a partner in the consortium led by the College of Optometrists, ABDO strongly supports this exciting new initiative. Our sector-led approach will support the wide-ranging collaboration needed to implement the GOC’s new education requirements, and enable us to draw in vital expertise in relation to the education and assessment of both dispensing opticians and optometrists.”

Read more on this story on DO Online.

Bringing optics back together

OCTOBER 2021 DISPENSING OPTICS

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NEWS

OCTOBER 2021

Expanding clinical skills in OCT

Bespoke lens for kids

The next step in ABDO's clinical training will bring a focus on optical coherence tomography (OCT).

The Association has teamed up with optometrist and dispensing optician, Jason Higginbotham of FYEye Consultants, to deliver hands-on OCT workshops at the ABDO National Resource Centre in November, supported by preevent webinars.

ABDO clinical lead, Max Halford, said: “The existing extended services course accredits contact lens opticians [CLOs] to work within community enhanced services. However, we have a cohort of dispensing opticians [DOs] who also wish to expand their clinical skills. So, coupled with the increasing use of OCT in practice, it seemed a logical next step to offer high quality training in this area.

“I am delighted ABDO has teamed up with Jason Higginbotham to deliver this," Max continued. "Participants will gain hands on-experience of image capture on a range of OCTs, have a refresher on retinal anatomy, and begin to learn what are normal and abnormal OCT images.

"ABDO and FYEye would like to thank Topcon, Birmingham Optical Group [Nidek], BiB, Zeiss and Heidelberg Engineering for their support," Max added.

Jason said: “OCT has the power to

New Eyezen Kids from Essilor is an optimised single vision lens specifically designed for six to 12-year-olds.

Its DualOptim Kids technology takes children’s parameters, including morphology, object distance and gaze directions, into account to optimise the lens design. This, said the company, provides 60+ per cent more optimal lens area than a standard since vision lens, with 60 per cent less aberrations in the lower area of the lens.

“The lens has been independently tested and will make the lives of children easier by providing greater visual performance," said Tim Precious, managing director at Essilor.

Point-of-sale material is available to support the launch in-practice, including patient leaflets and posters.

JASON HIGGINBOTHAM change primary eyecare for the better.

However, there are too many false positive glaucoma referrals into the NHS. I firmly believe that education is a primary element in reducing this issue.

"DOs can help improve the whole process of introducing OCT to practices and patients, streamline the process of scan capture and handover to optometrists, and discuss the concept of OCT with patients and non-clinical staff.

“I am delighted to be working with Max Halford on this project, and to have been given the opportunity by ABDO to provide in-depth OCT education for DOs and CLOs," Jason added.

CET points have been applied for, and booking and cost details can be found in the ABDO website Events section.

COVERING CHILDREN'S NEEDS

SEE keynote speaker Nick Bridge, the UK foreign secretary’s special representative for climate NICK BRIDGE change, will be the keynote speaker at this month's inaugural SEE Summit on the Environment.

Responsible for directing the UK’s global diplomatic climate change work, Nick is currently focused on next month's 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow.

Turn to News Focus on page 12 for more on the SEE Summit.

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DISPENSING OPTICS OCTOBER 2021

StepperS STS-40208

Steely looks, stylish design Stylishly-designed StepperS stainless steel frames are skin friendly for those with a sensitivity to base metals, corrosion-resistant and strong.

Model STS-40208 (pictured) combines straight lines with curves, and features a clever hinge mechanism. Colour combination options include grey/rose gold, green/gunmetal, vanilla/gold or lilac/silver.

"Design comes literally to the front with StepperS frames – as you can see in the rim outline of this example," said Peter Reeve, Stepper UK managing director.

SHAMIR METAFORM

Nano-structure technology to superpower your lenses

WATCH NOW

To register your interest please email your name, practice information and postcode to metaform@shamirlens.co.uk

NEWS New WCSM Journeyman scheme The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM) has launched a new scheme for early career eye health and sight loss professionals.

GETTING INVOLVED EARLY ON

OCTOBER 2021 The Journeyman scheme is aimed at people of any age who are within their first few years of working in any optical profession or in the sight loss sector.

WCSM Master, Huntly Taylor, said he would encourage early years professionals in any optical discipline to give the WCSM try: “This scheme makes it easier for people in the first few years of their career to get involved and explore their part in supporting better vision for all.

"In the last two years, half of our new members have been under 40 and our online events have attracted people living and working far away from our home base in London. We are looking forward to expanding our reach and welcoming an even more diverse group of people into the Spectacle Makers’ family.”

Our photograph shows Freeman Karla McKenzie, and Journeyman Chioma Ezenwoye.

Find out about the scheme at www.spectaclemakers.com

Infant style selection A new collection for infants has been released under Continental Eyewear's Lazer Junior brand.

Aimed at children aged four and under, the styles feature a plastic flex hinge and safety band for comfort and durability.

There are two models, each available in two colours.

Our photograph shows rectangular model 2208 in blue, also available in teal.

Model 2210 is a more rounded style, available in blue and purple.

Lazer Junior model 2208

Art of eyewear design

Artline model 5546

No test, no entry Anyone wishing to attend Independents Day on 24 October will be required to be double vaccinated and show a negative PCR test for Covid-19. Anyone testing positive, so unable to attend, will be entitled to a full refund, said the organiser Proven Track Record (PTR).

Themed ‘Commercialising myopia management’, the event takes place at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham.

PTR director, Nick Atkins, said: “It is essential that all delegates feel as confident attending Independents Day as they do going into work every day. Hand sanitising stations will be widely available although masks won’t be mandatory.”

Book at www.independentsday.co.uk

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DISPENSING OPTICS OCTOBER 2021

The newest styles in Silhouette's Artline collection are inspired by the range's clean, sophisticated style.

Comprising of four contemporary new shapes, two for women and two for men, the collection draws inspiration from jewellery design. Crafted from Silhouette's signature high-quality materials and finished with 23 carat gold, the Artline collection aims to deliver understated elegance for a minimalist look.

Model 5546 (pictured below) is a flattering cat-eye shape for women, embellished with sparkling crystals.

Sight loss roadshow goes virtual Dan Williams of Visualise Training and Consultancy has launched a three CET point e-learning version of his Seeing Beyond the Eyes CET Roadshow for dispensing opticians and optometrists.

The roadshow has trained more than 5,000 optical professionals to date, and Dan now wants to reach more staff to ensure patients with sight loss receive accessible information and timely referrals to support services.

"Optical professionals are highly experienced in the anatomy of the eye and experts in lenses,” Dan continued, “but there is a big knowledge gap in understanding visual impairment and how it affects people on a daily basis. The more

DAN WILLIAMS optical professionals learn, the more people with sight loss will be empowered with the knowledge they need to move forward as is they who are generally the first point of contact in a person’s sight loss journey.”

For more details, visit www.visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com

CHARMANT UK Co., Ltd | www.charmant.com/en

NEWS FOCUS SUSTAINABILITY SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL

Getting started

in sustainability n the eve of the inaugural SEE Summit on the Environment, ABDO has launched its new Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool to inspire action on climate change within the optical community.

The Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool is designed to encourage everyone in optics – whether they be employee, locum, business owner or manufacturer – to look at what steps they can take to become more sustainable.

Developed by ABDO’s Working Group on the Environment, in collaboration with organisations across the optical community, the tool will help the user assess their current practises and find key solutions to make their working life, practice and/or businesses more sustainable.

Daryl Newsome, chair of the working group and ABDO vice president, explains more: “Everyone working in the optical industry has a part to play. If you are an employee, you can work towards saving energy and water in practice every day as you go about your job. You can make sure you reuse items which would otherwise have been thrown away, such as saving scrap paper for notes. If you are a manager or business owner, the tool gives you plenty of ideas too, and could be the first step towards your own sustainability strategy.”

The Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool starts with a questionnaire; the user will then receive weekly emails outlining changes they can make, focusing on themes such as recycling, saving energy, travel and how to reuse, refill, repair and recycle.

"All the tips are focused on the optical industry, making this a unique and useful way for optical professionals and their teams to make a real difference," says Daryl. "Once you have worked through the weekly tips, you can go back to the questionnaire and see how much progress you have made.

"Sustainability is a journey, and we know that the Sustainability Self-Assessment Tool will help everyone move closer to a truly sustainable optical industry, something that will benefit the planet now and long into the future.”

O

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DISPENSING OPTICS OCTOBER 2021

INSPIRING LASTING CHANGE The inaugural SEE Summit on the Environment, taking place on the evening of Monday 4 October, will provide attendees with access to the Sustainability SelfAssessment Tool, along with inspiring and practical tips from a range of key figures in the industry.

Forerunning the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow from 31 October to 12 November, the summit aims to promote environmental sustainability in the UK optical sector and contribute to the government’s goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Supported by the Optical Suppliers Association, the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians and a host of other optical organisations, the summit will offer a packed agenda. Inspiring speakers will explain how they have moved towards environmental sustainability in practice and in manufacturing, offering practical advice on the changes that can be made at work.

To book a place visit www.abdo.org.uk/events/see-event

TACKLING INDUSTRY WASTE mong the speakers at the SEE Summit is James Conway, Millmead Optical Group CEO and a champion of sustainability.

The Millmead Group has worked to reduce its environmental impact in the office, the production line and in product distribution, supporting its overall mission to continuously find more efficient ways to improve the impact the business and industry may have on the environment.

James said: “Our sustainability efforts are a journey not a destination, and I will share how that journey can be navigated at the SEE Summit.”

James will discuss some exciting projects in the pipeline and how sustainability should be at the forefront of everyone’s business operations.

A

JAMES CONWAY

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

LOW VISION SOLUTIONS

New world of HD possibilities With its large 10-inch screen, customisable features and intuitive operation, the Compact 10 HD available from Optelec offers all the benefits of a desktop video magnifier but in a much smaller, foldable and portable design.

"The Compact 10 HD is an ideal solution to magnify and read newspapers, letters and magazines," explained James Fossey, Optelec sales and marketing manager. "But its unique swing-out arm opens a whole new range of possibilities. With the arm unfolded, the user can easily look at photos, view medicine packaging, and even read round cans, without being restricted in their movements. The arm even allows the user to write their signature and finish crossword puzzles."

The Compact 10 HD features a large, high definition 10-inch touch screen, which means that more text can be fitted onto the screen for maximum overview.

"With more words on the screen simultaneously, reading becomes easier and the user will benefit from a better understanding of the text," explained James. "And when reading smaller pieces of text, the user can quickly grab the Compact 10 HD to read more comfortably. It instantly powers on, just like a phone."

The Compact 10 HD is also available with Text-to-Speech, allowing the user to listen to text as it is read out loud.

Text-to-Speech with the Compact 10 HD

Bigger and better Upgrade your practice's low vision portfolio with some of the latest solutions designed to improve the visually impaired patient's quality of life.

Setting new standard in its class The new Eschenbach Smartlux Digital, available through Associated Optical features a modern, ergonomic and compact design with superior imaging quality.

"Smartlux Digital is particularly user-friendly," explained Stuart Baldwin, director of Associated Optical. "A full HD camera with improved optics gives the new Smartlux Digital a high image sharpness and depth of field. Its five-inch display guarantees brilliant image reproduction and additional highlights – such as an enlarged field of view and higher magnification – improve the usability of this Eschenbach bestseller.

"Expanded functionality, individual setting options and its familiar, clever, straightforward operation means that it sets new standards in user-friendliness in its class. For example, a vertically adjustable reading line or mask improves orientation," added Stuart.

The Smartlux Digital can also be used as a desktop video magnifier.

New and improved Smartlux Digital

High magnification without compromise The Optima Dart is a new range of LED hand magnifiers, designed and developed in the UK by Optima Low Vision Services and its design partner 3Form Design.

"This range has the needs of low vision patient and practitioner at its core," said Nicholas Collins, director at Optima Low Vision Services.

The Optima Dart has 10 levels of magnification, ranging from +6.00d to +52.00D in single aspheric lenses. "This enables practitioners to provide the level of magnification patients need without compromise," explained Nicholas. The LED has two levels of brightness at 5,000k, offering an even, high contrast image.

"The Optima Dart’s push button control and simple battery change has been specifically designed with ergonomics in mind. As many of our low vision patients have difficult with dexterity, it is essential that any low vision product meets their needs," Nicholas continued.

"The Optima Dart is also unique in its class with its interchangeable lens heads and handles, making demonstration, cleaning and maintaining the magnifiers easy in busy low vision clinics or High Street practices," he added.

Optima Dart: a new range of LED magnifiers

Next month's Product Spotlight is on contact lenses and related products.

OCTOBER 2021 DISPENSING OPTICS

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CET COMPETENCIES COVERED DISPENSING OPTICIANS Standards of Practice Optical Appliances Low Vision OPTOMETRISTS Standards of Practice Optical Appliances

Are people with low vision effectively identified for support by dispensing opticians?

By Jayshree Vasani FBDO n the UK, we have close to two million people with significant sight loss1. Looking at the leading causes of sight loss in the UK, the first one may be surprising: uncorrected refractive error. This is followed by age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataract, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy.

Some of these pathologies, for example glaucoma, have been shown to be eight times more frequently observed in Black African and Caribbean groups2 (Figure 1).

Sight loss affects people of all ages, but the older population is the most affected. One fifth of people aged 75 and over are living with sight loss and, in those aged 90 and above, this increases to 50 per cent3. It has also been noted that women are disproportionately affected, making up two thirds of the

I This CET has been approved for one point by the GOC. It is open to all FBDO members, and associate member optometrists. The multiplechoice questions (MCQs) for this month’s CET are available online only from 1 October 2021, to comply with the GOC’s Good Practice Guidance for this type of CET. Insert your answers to the six MCQs online at www.abdo.org.uk. After member login, scroll down and you will find CET Online within your Personalised Dashboard. Questions will be presented in random order. Please ensure that your email address and GOC number are up-to-date. The pass mark is 60 per cent. The answers will appear in the February 2022 issue of Dispensing Optics. The closing date is 30 December 2021.

C-78714 Approved for one CET Point

group living with sight loss. Adults with learning disabilities are 10 times more likely than the general population to be sight impaired (SI) or severely sight impaired (SSI)3.

Low vision is one of the nine core competencies for dispensing opticians (DOs) as set by the General Optical Council (GOC)4. Anecdotally, it is widely acknowledged that not all DOs practise low vision in High Street optical practice.

It could be viewed that some DOs are not aligned with the GOC when considering the inclusion of low vision as a core skill in their professional role. Perhaps it is believed that difficult cases can always be referred to the hospital instead of being seen in primary eyecare, or it may be there is a lack of awareness of the services and technology now available for people with a visual impairment, or a lack of confidence in how to advise patients.

FIGURE 1. GLAUCOMA IS MORE FREQUENTLY OBSERVED IN BLACK AFRICAN AND CARIBBEAN GROUPS Image courtesy of SeeAbility

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DISPENSING OPTICS OCTOBER 2021

through a telephone conversation, initially to see how they are coping.

Additionally, inherited eye conditions and dystrophies, such as Stargardt’s disease, retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome, can affect much younger people. Some of these rare conditions can appear in childhood though some are not diagnosed until later in life.

Another consideration is for the DO to work closely with the prescribing optometrist, to ensure patients with reduced visual acuities or visual field defects are highlighted – as they may become visually impaired later on. This may be a route to helping these patients as early as possible.

FIGURE 2: 2015 REPORT HIGHLIGHTS THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOICE & ACCESSIBILITY

The aim of this article is look at assistive technology for patients with low vision, and how the eyecare practitioner can support and improve awareness of some key options available for patients within the practice setting.

IDENTIFYING LOW VISION PATIENTS When discussing low vision cases, ABDO practice visitors report often hearing students and supervisors remark: "We don't see many low vision patients in our practice". While this may be true in the current pandemic, where many of this patient group may have been shielding, it is highly unlikely to have been the prepandemic. It is more likely that patients with low vision are not so easily identified by staff members.

One way to identify patients with low vision is to look at patient pathologies more carefully, leading to a better understanding of the impact each condition might have on the patient. It may be prudent to revisit these patients

IMPROVING SERVICES AND SUPPORT In 2015, the RNIB and Age UK published their report, ‘Improving later life for people with sight loss’5 (Figure 2). It concluded that people in their later years wanted to remain independent regardless of their health, wellbeing or financial situations – to name but a few indicators. They wanted to make their own decisions – with choice and accessibility at the heart of this. By engaging and assisting people with sight loss, we can empower them to achieve a good quality of life.

Some of the key points that emerged from the report apply to primary care optical practices and workforce: • Ensuring easy access and support for people with sight loss • Making services accessible • Delivering integrated services • Improving professionals’ awareness If we consider how this change may be implemented into everyday practice, improving accessibility and signposting to healthcare services are vital pieces of the jigsaw. By looking at the practice and its facilities, it is incumbent upon the practitioner to highlight what is offered

PLAN YOUR CET TODAY For all the latest CET available from ABDO visit the Events section of the ABDO website. Here you will able to see the latest online interactive CET sessions available for booking. Online sessions include discussion-based workshops, a great way to learn in a small group of your peers. Online discussion sessions are available for all professional roles and are approved for three CET points. New sessions will be added regularly. Additionally, we continue to host our monthly CET webinar series featuring a range of topics and speakers. Each CET webinar will be approved for one interactive CET point.

to all patients and service users, regardless of disability. It is crucial to ensure the practice is accessible and provides reasonable adjustments to enable people with a disability to make use of its primary care services.

WHAT IS A REASONABLE ADJUSTMENT? People with disabilities are protected under the law regarding the use of, and access to services, without being subjected to disability discrimination.

Service providers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, as directed by the Equality Act 20106.

The Equality Act 2010 gives a specific legal meaning to disability, protecting against discrimination those that are able to show they meet the definition. The Equality and Human Rights Commission states: “A disability means a physical or a mental condition which has a substantial and long-term impact on your ability to do normal day to day activities” 7.

Remember that a disability can be visible, like some needing to use a wheelchair, or invisible such as diabetes or a hearing impairment7.

For practitioners who may be unclear what constitutes a reasonable adjustment, the Equality and Human Rights Commission has produced a number of helpful resources, including short videos available on YouTube8.

One important question to ask every patient is: "Do you have any accessibility requirements we need to accommodate, such as large print, audio or extra time?"

Some examples of low, or no cost, reasonable adjustments are: • Providing a longer appointment so the patient is not rushed • Schedule appointment times at the quietest times of the day • Provide a quiet or less brightly lit space • Send emails about appointment times in large print or Easy Read • Highlight steps with colour contrast edging • Manifestation (stickers) on glass doors • Inform carers and service users about any disabled parking available before their visit • Train staff in guiding people with visual impairment OCTOBER 2021 DISPENSING OPTICS

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CET

PUTTING THEORIES INTO PRACTICE

FIGURE 3: EXAMPLE OF AN EASY READ DOCUMENT FROM EASY-READ ONLINE

Easy Read is a specific format incorporating short, clear sentences in minimum 14pt font size and using corresponding images (Figure 3). It was developed for people with learning disabilities, those who find it difficult to read, those with memory problems or people who are communicating in a second language.

A category of patients that is not often considered are those that are registered SSI or SI and of working age, of which there are approximately 84,500 in the UK. Shockingly and sadly, only one in four of this group are in employment9.

In 2015, the RNIB carried out a one of a kind survey called My Voice, which gives a unique viewpoint into the real life of a person with visual impairment residing in the UK today10.’

All eyecare practitioners should make themselves aware of the Access to Work scheme – a UK government programme available to anyone with a disability, aimed at supporting disabled people to take up or remain in work11.

Above all, we must remember that there is no typical patient with visual impairment. The impact of the vision impairment can vary significantly according to the nature and extent of vision loss; some people will have been born without vision, others will have lost it gradually. Some will have no vision at all, others will have partial vision, be light-sensitive or have limited peripheral

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Reviewing personal professional practice, whether in High Street practice or in a hospital setting, is an important skill for all optical practitioners to develop.

Learning improves with practice, and we should be mindful to keep our learning fresh, challenging and reflective in practice12. Often, only when a question becomes personal does the realisation hit that deeper investigation, research and learning is required.

The following case example stems from an incident when a neighbour came knocking at the author’s home to ask how she could access the internet, as she was visually impaired.

CASE EXAMPLE: ‘Kiranben’ (Figure 4) • AGE: 74 years old.

• ETHNICITY: South Asian.

• OCULAR PATHOLOGY: dry AMD. • LIVING CIRCUMSTANCES: Lives alone after being recently widowed.

No close family live nearby.

• RECENT EYECARE HISTORY: Referred to the local hospital by her optometrist due to her low vision.

Certified as SI. The ophthalmology department did not have an eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO) and she left the hospital with a leaflet about her condition.

• COMMUNICATION/TECHNOLOGY DEVICES: Home phone and now smartphone purchased three months ago.

This case is like many seen in High Street practice. The patient has found her correspondence particularly challenging due to her visual impairment.

Kiranben loves reading and wants to use the internet. Recently widowed, she feels isolated and is struggling with reading the documentation that comes with the loss of a partner or loved one. She is finding the situation overwhelming at times. So what can an eyecare professional do to support her?

MAKE A REFERRAL/S The first step should be to help Kiranben get in touch with the Royal National

Institute of Blind People (RNIB), which can link her to the nearest ECLO in her area13. An ECLO can signpost her to local services and help with the emotional impact of sight loss, her recent bereavement, and feelings of isolation.

Not all hospitals have an ECLO and the RNIB is working with local hospital trusts to improve the availability of ECLOs. If English is not Kiranben's first language, then the ECLO could arrange for an interpreter to attend the appointment too.

A point of note is that referral pathways can vary around the UK. In Wales patients should be referred to their nearest Low Vision Service Wales Optician14. A full list can be found on the Wales Eye Care Services website, www.eyecare.wales.nhs.uk. For patients in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland, a referral to the RNIB would be suitable.

As Kiranben has been certified SI, she should have been contacted by social services to ask whether she would like to Photo from stock

vision. It is also possible that vision and light-sensitivity will fluctuate day-to-day.

This highlights the need for a patientcentred approach.

FIGURE 4. PATIENT CASE HISTORY

be added to its register of visually impaired people. Social services should contact her again to arrange for an assessment to be carried out, and to see if they can assist her with daily living activities like cleaning and cooking or mobility and transport.

Training delivered by a rehabilitation officer for vision impairment (ROVI) can be life-changing as a patient with sight loss relearns daily practice and mobility skills to maintain self-reliance.

Registration as SI or SSI can bring about a host of benefits including financial and welfare support, travel concessions and a disabled person's

railcard. Being registered would also qualify Kiranben to sign up to her utility supplier’s Priority Service Register, meaning she would get extra help and support with her gas, electricity and water services.

It is important to be aware about the benefits of SI/SSI registration, as the patient may turn to the eyecare professional to chat about their anxiety and concerns, particularly if they have been a patient of the practice for a long time. Additionally, there is a need for an awareness of the pathways in place for patients and what happens next, so they can be supported in what is a potentially traumatic time in their lives.

As Kiranben has AMD, a referral to the Macular Society is also recommended as it offers a host of services. These include: advice and information; a befriending service involving telephone support groups; and a 'skill for seeing' referral to make the best of the vision that a patient has15. This could include ‘eccentric viewing’ and ‘steady eye strategy’ techniques. Like the RNIB, the Macular Society provides a free counselling service aimed at tackling the emotional impact and sense of isolation that visual impairment brings.

The importance of local sight loss charities providing support and local links should not be underestimated.

Practitioners should take time to visit local services to know what they offer, be it support with technology, peer support or local skills groups. The RNIB provides a Sightline Directory, and local services can be found by entering the patient’s postcode and the search term ‘low vision’ into the directory search function16.

A useful free resource guide for eyecare practitioners is available to download from Visualise Training and Consultancy17. It lists national organisations supporting people with sight loss, condition specific charities and low vision suppliers. There is also a self-filling organiser where useful local contacts can be recorded.

TYPOSCOPES On a practical level, the demonstration of a typoscope made of black card or plastic with holes cut in to act as a signature guide can help the patient when reading and writing letters. The surrounding card screens out excess information and glare,

allowing the user to concentrate on a specific area. Practitioners can create a home-made typoscope from black card to the patient’s preferred shape and size, or they are available from the RNIB shop.

A writing frame can help keep lines of writing straight and help the patient when signing any documents.

GETTING SMART WITH PHONES Kiranben has a smartphone, and it may be worth discussing the benefits of a larger screen in the form of a tablet. An important consideration before proceeding is to explain exactly what you are aiming to do, gaining full consent, and writing notes in the patient’s records of what you have done.

Remember: a smartphone or device harbours sensitive personal data. So an alternative could be to give written instructions where a care giver or partner could make the necessary changes on the device. An eyecare practitioner should be able to show the patient how to change the settings on a smartphone to provide

provides spoken feedback, meaning the person can use the phone/tablet without looking at it. Talkback also uses hand gestures to control the functions, like a double tap to activate an item, swiping right and left to move between the item and dragging two fingers to scroll.

Visibility Enhancement offers features such as altering the view of the screen, changing the background for contrast, and making the font size bigger.

These are replicated on the operating platform, including email and text, making text easier to read. All of these changes must be done in consultation with the patient to optimise their preferences.

To send an audio message, launch the Google Assistant feature by saying, "Ok Google", or by swiping in from the bottom left or right-hand corners. Next the command would be, “Send audio message to [name of contact listed in the device]”. Once the person has confirmation that the contact has been found, the message can be spoken into FIGURE 5. SMARTPHONE SETTINGS CAN BE EASILY ADJUSTED TO IMPROVE ACCESSIBILITY

Image courtesy of the RNIB

better background contrast and/or make the text bigger. Such small tweaks could make a significant improvement on how the device is used by visually impaired patients (Figure 5).

All changes begin from the device's Settings button. For the Android platform, proceed to the Accessibility function, which has options for Talkback, Visibility Enhancement, Hearing Interaction and Dexterity. Talkback

the phone. Saying “End” when the message is finished will send it to the appropriate contact, who will receive the audio message in their preferred SMS app. Before sending, the service will give the sender the chance to listen to the message and/or delete it if they prefer.

For an Apple iPhone, from Settings proceed to General and then Accessibility, which runs across most Apple products. Apple's freephone

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CET APPS AND OTHER RESOURCES

FIGURE 6: GUIDECONNECT SOFTWARE FROM DOLPHIN COMPUTER ACCESS

customer support line can also assist people with a visual impairment and there are dedicated websites for Apple users, such as AppleVis, to help people utilise accessibility functions18.

Apple ‘voiceover’ is when the phone screen reader describes exactly what is happening on the device, enabling a person to hear their emails and texts or navigate a website. This can work equally well with the five per cent of visually impaired users of Braille. The Apple ‘magnifier’ function works like a digital magnifying glass using the camera on the iPhone, iPad or iPod touch to increase the size of any physical object it is pointed at, for example, a menu or sign.

In addition, the flash can illuminate the object, filters can help differentiate colours and the freeze frame can be used to get a static close up. It is worth getting familiar with the Accessibility functions on an iPhone so that they can be confidently explained to a patient or carer to assist the person with a visual impairment.

ASSISTIVE AND SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES The recent growth in assistive technology (AT) for people with visual impairments has been exponential and benefits people of all ages. The patient's capabilities need to be understood, alongside what they want to achieve using the best of their limited vision.

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It is then possible to match the patient to the available AT. The challenge is the eyecare practitioner upskilling their knowledge of AT and dovetailing this to the patient’s needs and requests.

So, what is AT? • ‘Assistive’ refers to a piece of equipment designed to aid a person with a disability • AT is any device, software or equipment that helps people with learning, communication, or being able function better • AT can be as high-tech as a computer or as low-tech as a walking stick • AT can help people who learn and think differently work around their challenges • AT can empower people to do things for themselves An example of other software technology that could assist Kiranben is GuideConnect from Dolphin Computer Access (Figure 6). This software comes with a free 20-day trial and would allow her send and receive emails, write and listen to letters and other post being read aloud, reconnect with friends and make video calls.

Additionally, Kiranben could listen to audio books or daily newspapers. A local sight loss charity can demonstrate software if they are referred in, but equally so could the eyecare professional in a High Street practice.

Technological advances have presented visually impaired people with formerly unimagined opportunities to retain their independence. Smartphones, tablets and computers and the development of apps have had a big impact on all our lives.

Apps or ‘applications’ on smartphones and tablets have leveraged massive gains for all, especially people with a visual impairment of working age. For example, apps around navigation provide the freedom to travel to and from work independently.

Henshaws, a sight loss charity based in Greater Manchester, has produced a guide to '24 of the best apps for people with a visual impairment’ (Figure 7). The guide covers a multitude of apps that can help within different categories19: • IDENTIFICATION: be it colour matching, identify money or finding an item • READING: be it a book or a medicine label • SOCIAL NETWORKING: be it a simple thing as sending as birthday card • NAVIGATION: finding the way to work, the local shops/church or pub • ENTERTAINMENT: listening books • SHOPPING: be it reading barcodes or product names • WORK: be it note-taking or podcasts Henshaws also provides a Knowledge Village on its website at www.henshaws.org.uk. This is a useful resource for people who are experiencing or working with sight loss and disability.

Regularly updated, it contains a collection of videos, blogs, ebooks and other resources, covering different areas including apps, technology, and daily living skills just to mention a few20.

Two apps mentioned in the guide – Seeing AI and Be My Eyes – use augmented reality (AR) and the camera on a smart device. With both apps, no sight is required to operate the app, as spoken feedback is available. Both apps deliver a wide range of services.

Seeing AI is currently only available on iOS. It is a free app that can complete multiple tasks. Using the iPhone camera and audio functions, it is possible to read out loud short, printed and handwritten text. You can take an image of a scene and the app will describe what is pictured.

It can identify currency as well as

Resources Pack17. A number of suppliers offer to attend the optical practice to demonstrate their products to support the eyecare practitioner in providing training to their patients. Additionally, some offer training direct to the patient.

SUMMARY

FIGURE 7: HENSHAWS OFFERS A GUIDE TO THE BEST APPS FOR PEOPLE WITH A VI

recognise friends and describe other people – including their emotions. The Seeing AI app can now communicate in eight different languages21.

With more than 300,000 blind and low vision users and almost five million volunteers, the free Be My Eyes app (Figure 8) is the largest community of visually impaired people and one of the biggest micro-volunteering platforms in the world22. Available on both iOS and Android platforms, Be My Eyes is available in 180 languages and connects visually impaired people with sighted volunteers who provide virtual assistance through a live video call.

FIGURE 8. BE MY EYES IS THE WORLD'S LARGEST COMMUNITY OF VI PEOPLE

In 2018, a Specialised Help function was added to the Be My Eyes app, connecting the user with official representatives at partner companies; Microsoft was the first to sign up. Owing to needs brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the RNIB has worked alongside the Department of Health and

Social Care to enable people with a visual impairment to take a home coronavirus test using the Specialised Help function.

The user is connected to a professional staff member via the NHS Test and Trace helpline, to help people with sight loss to take a COVID-19 test at home23.

DON’T FORGET THE LITTLE THINGS Voice assistants like Apple Siri, Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa can be utilised in many ways. For example, providing reminders, keeping lists, assisting with planning, train times, weather forecasts and so on. Physically showing a Kindle device to a 74-year-old patient is much more impactful to demonstrate the larger font sizes, the lightness of the device compared to a standard tablet, and the wealth of books available once registered.

Very few optical practices or eyecare practitioners fully utilise the low vision suppliers of software or hardware, like CCTV or handheld electronic magnifiers, that are available for patients with a visual impairment. Many of these suppliers are ready and able to offer free training and demonstrations to optical professionals and patients, and they are a much-underused resource.

As previously mentioned, a list of some suppliers of low vision aids, technology and daily living solutions is available in the Seeing Beyond the Eyes

This article has only touched upon the wealth of assistive technologies that are available, and simply focused on quick wins for the dispensing optician in practice. Simple advice can be lifechanging, such as recommending a wide brimmed hat like the Tilley Hat that a patient with a visual impairment told the author about.

The beneficial properties of the hat cited by the patient were that ‘the broad brim hat’ had a tuck-away cord to keep it secure as she would find it difficult to locate on a sunny but windy day, and a hidden pocket to store a credit card and cash. It also provided UV protection, as most Tilley fabrics are rated UPF 50+, the maximum rating given. The wide brim made a big difference as the glare adversely affected her condition of ocular albinism and nystagmus.

As healthcare practitioners we have a duty of care to our patients with sight loss, and we should endeavour to provide a holistic approach to their eyecare and vision.

References for this article are included with the online version in the ABDO members’ CET portal.

JAYSHREE VASANI has been working in optics for nearly three decades. She is a practical examiner in ophthalmic dispensing and practice visitor for ABDO, a local lead for ABDO London. Additionally, she is a member of the East London, City and Islington Local Optical Committee and a sessional DO for the RNIB Low Vision Centre in London. Jayshree is a CET facilitator for the Seeing Beyond the Eyes Roadshow, connecting the UK eyecare and sight loss sectors.

She is the co-host with Nathan Garnett (show director) on the 100% Optical Insider Tech Bites showcase, linking optical suppliers with optical buyers via a fiveminute virtual pitch platform.

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MCAs

Multiple choice answers A SPECIALISED SKILL Bifocal dispensing: a forgotten skill?

Self-directed learning introduced by Fiona Anderson BSc (Hons), FBDO R, SMC (Tech), FEAOO C-77953 – published in June 2021 Successful completion of eight MCQs will result in one non-interactive CET point.

Which statement is correct? a. Flat top segments are ideal for high plus prescriptions b. Flat top segments eliminate ‘jump’ c. Flat top segments are ideal for minus prescriptions d. Flat top segments are only available in plastics materials c is the correct answer. Flat top segments are ideal for minus powered prescriptions as they induce less prismatic ‘jump’, they are suitable for lower powered plus prescriptions, and are available in mineral materials.

Access Ophthalmic Lens Availability for more information.

Which statement is incorrect? a. Larger diameter round segments produce more base down prism b. Round segment bifocals are available in numerous segment sizes c. Round segment bifocals are available in ‘high add’ d. Round segment bifocals produce base up prism d is the correct answer. Round segment bifocals produce base down prism, the larger the segment the more base down is produced, numerous segment diameters are available and ‘high add’ round segment bifocals are available. Access Ophthalmic Lens Availability for more information.

When dispensing any bifocal lens, the size and shape of the bifocal should be determined by: a. Prescription, occupation, previous spectacle lenses b. The patient’s preference, cost and cosmesis c. Cost, previous spectacle lenses and frame size d. Prescription, cosmesis and patient preference a is the correct answer. The size and shape of the segment should be discussed with the patient taking into account their needs, prescription, occupation and what they have worn before. Patient hobbies should also be discussed and considered. See Sally Bates’ article, 'Bifocals: part 2’, published in Re:View in September 2021, for further information on lens selection criteria.

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Manufacturing methods of bifocal lenses vary by material. Glass bifocals can be either fused or solid. A fused bifocal can be distinguished by: a. Its weight – fused bifocals are heavier than solid b. The dividing line cannot be felt on either surface c. The dividing line being more obvious in a fused bifocal d. Fused segments are only available in round b is the correct answer. The dividing line cannot be felt on either surface as the segment is manufactured from a material of a higher refractive index than the main distance portion of the lens. The segment is heated and placed into the lens depression curve. The segment fuses to the main portion of the lens and the difference in power is achieved by the difference in refractive index.

More info can be found at the Essilor Academy.

For a first-time bifocal wearer, the generally accepted segment top position should be: a. In line with the pupil centre b. On the horizontal centre line c. Mid way between the pupil and the lower eyelid d. On the lower limbus d is the correct answer. Andrew Keirl in ‘Essential course in dispensing Part 13’ (Optician 2014) states: "For new wearers the accepted fitting position for the segment dividing line is taken as being level with the lower limbus (Figure 7), before any adjustment for pantoscopic tilt is allowed for”.

‘Jump’ is a phenomenon often experienced by bifocal wearers. ‘Jump’ is defined as: a. The lens creating a ‘jack-in-the-box’ effect b. Sudden introduction of base down prism when crossing the dividing line c. Jump is caused by looking through the wrong portion of the lens d. Jump is caused by the patient using the lens incorrectly b is the correct answer. Image ‘jump’ is produced due to the sudden introduction of base down prism at the dividing line of the segment. The image is displaced upwards when the patient looks down to read, due to the base down prism induced at the dividing line.

Benjamin Franklin is attributed with having invented bifocal lenses

To eliminate ‘Jump’ from a bifocal lens we must ensure: a. Take accurate measurements and make sure a suitable segment shape is chosen b. We only dispense to existing patients who have bifocal lenses – we know they can wear them successfully c. Dispense a lens which has the optical centre of the segment coincident with the dividing line d. Apply a Reflection free coating to the lens c is the correct answer. The criteria to eliminate ‘Jump’ is to place the optical centre of the segment on the dividing line. The formula used to calculate Jump is Prentice’ Rule: Jump (Δ) = c x F. Jump (Δ) = OC of segment from dividing line X Add. If the OC of the segment lies on the dividing line then the distance is zero and therefore, the Jump too is zero.

Identify the correct amount of differential prism for the following prescription. (The NVP is assumed to be 10 mm below the distance optical centre of the lens).

Distance Near

RIGHT Sph Cyl Axis -1.50 -0.50 180 Add +2.50

LEFT Sph Cyl -2.00 -1.50 Add +2.50

Axis 180

a. 0.50Δ Down Left Eye b. 0.50Δ Down Right Eye c. 1.50Δ Down Left Eye d. 1.50Δ Down Right Eye c is the correct answer. The reading addition has no significance in the calculation as it is the same in each eye and so the segment will contribute the same amount of prism in both right and left, assuming that the segments are set symmetrically. All the differential prism is due to the distance prescription and is calculated using Prentice’s Rule: P = cF. We have made c = 1cm, so P = F gives us R 2Δ base Down L 3.5Δ base Down due to the power of the 90 meridian. This gives a differential vertical prism of 1.5Δ base Down Left, as the left lens contributes more base Down than the right.

The humble bifocal offers a solution for many patients

When dispensing bifocal lenses to children it is generally accepted that the segment top position will be placed: a. On the lower limbus b. Just below the pupil centre or mid-way between the pupil centre and the lower limbus c. 15 to 20mm above the bottom rim of the frame d. On the horizontal centre line b is the correct answer. Generally, the bifocal will be set higher than normal, often in line or slightly below pupil centre to encourage use. Quite often, the bifocal can be introduced at an early age where the vertical depth of the frame may be 20-25mm. It is accepted that leaving about 10mm of vertical distance as a minimum from bifocal top edge to top rim would be sufficient. See the ABDO publication, ‘Pathway for dispensing to children’, for more information on segment top position when fitting bifocals to children.

Research shows that children with Down’s syndrome tend to under-accommodate at near. What percentage is this estimated to be? a. 76 per cent b. 40 per cent c. 25 per cent d. 33 per cent a is the correct answer. Dr Maggie Woodhouse states that: ‘The majority (76 per cent) of children with Down’s syndrome under-accommodate at near, as assessed by objective testing. Research has shown that these children gain optical benefit from bifocal spectacles, i.e. improved near focusing and show significantly improved school performance".

Participants are advised that the GOC’s Enhanced CET Principles and Requirements v4 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 article references.

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IN PRACTICE – LOW VISION ANTONIA CHITTY

How low can you go? ould you be doing more to help people with low vision? Low vision services have been hit by the pandemic, and many people are struggling to get the support they need. Expanding the range of low vison support you offer in practice will help this vulnerable group, as well as provide a great way to extend your skills. Read on to find out how one practice is expanding its low vison offering, and get tips from a low vision specialist.

Nicholas Collins is a director at Optima Low Vision and a Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT). He says: “We deliver low vision services through the NHS, seeing around 1,500 patients a year across the South West of England. Low vision is a speciality which is rewarding, challenging and varied.”

Optima Low Vision runs clinics from different centres, as Nicholas explains: “For South Devon and Torbay, we see patients in our own centre with all the equipment to hand. Each consultation takes around an hour. Pre-Covid, we had colleagues from the rehabilitation team sitting in on appointments too.

Image courtesy of Optima Low Vision

C

GLARE ASSESSMENT IN THE LOW VISION CLINIC

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"We ascertain whether the patient understands their diagnosis, and draw out the problems they are having. We test distance and near vision, and establish whether the main issue is magnification, or whether the patient would benefit from visual rehabilitation using techniques such as eccentric fixation training. In this area, the sensory rehabilitation team is well funded and supported, which is enormously helpful.”

Once Nicholas has completed the initial appointments, patients will also have a meeting with a member of the community rehab team at their home to further help with issues they are having.

Optima also operates in Somerset.

Nicholas says: “We go to different venues such as Somerset Sight, local hospitals and local optical practices. Somerset is a rural county so we need to reach people where they are. The Somerset sensory team is much more thinly spread which is a challenge.”

HAVING THE RIGHT TOOLS Having the right range of equipment is key to a low vision assessment. Nicholas suggests: “I always recommend offering the full range of levels of magnification.

Limiting the range is a mistake. I hold illuminated hand magnifiers from six to 52D, and a full range of illuminated stand magnifiers for those with dexterity issues. I would certainly advise practitioners to have a task light available to demonstrate the benefits.

"Patients may come in thinking they need a magnifier, but in fact they need to change or improve their task light. I often find people don’t bring the light close enough to the task. Repositioning the light below eye level solves problems for many people.

"Sometimes we have people who attend complaining that they wanted a pair of glasses to solve their problems, and we can show them that improving the lighting will allow them to take advantage of the specs they have been

prescribed. We also talk about working distance: maybe their reading add has increased but they haven’t changed their working distance, and adjusting that can help them make the most of their new prescription.”

Alongside hand and stand magnifiers, Nicholas also advises that practitioners stock high add hyperoculars or half eye prismatics. He explains: “These are not always popular with patients. But sometimes you have a patient who is keen to have their hands free, or asks for stronger glasses.”

While high add hyperoculars or half eye prismatics suit some people, Nicholas says: “Sometimes we use these to demonstrate that stronger glasses need a short working distance, and the patient may in fact opt for a hand or stand magnifier.”

Something that may not be considered often enough in practice is the use of filters. Nicholas advises: “I would include filters and tints for glare in your essential low vision kit. Patients may get themselves a pair of dark glasses, which may cut glare but also reduces the light they can see, leading to a greater risk of trips and falls.

"I usually check the patient’s distance acuity, then check it again with a range of filters including yellows, ambers, reds, oranges, greys and greens," Nicholas continues. "I ask whether the chart looks clearer or about the same with each filter, so we can avoid filters that make it less clear. I then use a task light to simulate glare in a consistent way, and test again with a filter and without."

Nicholas finds that it's not uncommon to improve visual performance with the correct filter. He recalls: "I remember a patient who was guided into my clinic; he was squinting and had problems with glare. I checked his initial visual acuity as 2/60. I tried out a 450nm yellow filter, then a 511nm orange and he opened his eyes, saying: ‘This is much, much better’.

"His visual acuity increased to 6/36 as contrast sensitivity was the problem.

With the right filter, he also went from N80 to N32, only needing 20D of magnification. He walked out of the clinic without needing to be guided.”

Not all patients will see that dramatic an improvement with filters, but they will be of some help to many. Nicholas advises offering a full range of filters to give the best help to patients, and to help practitioners solve more problems.

Image courtesy of Optima Low Vision

TAKING A TAILORED APPROACH Jess Chandler is a dispensing optician at Samantha Hague Optometry in Tettenhall, Wolverhampton. She says: “When I did my ABDO qualifications, we touched on low vision. Having the ability to make such a difference to people really appealed to me. Patients are desperate to do the things we take for granted and low vision can help them with this.”

The patient base in Jess’s area is older. She explains: “We see a lot of patients who are starting to struggle.

They like to go out to lunch, play golf and do hobbies like model making, and we try to help them continue the things they enjoy.”

Jess and a colleague have recently taken steps to expand their low vision focus. “We have done extra education

Dispensing optician Jess Chandler has expanded her low vision focus

HAVING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT IS KEY

through a course run by Associated Optical with a university professor, looking at the Eschenbach tools available and how best to use them,” she explains.

“We all use magnifiers, but what I learned was how to get the best out of a magnifier, completely rethinking how you use the tool, not just for reading. I’m now more confident about offering magnifiers and aids for people for different situations. For example, we prescribed a detail clip for a patient whose family likes to watch movies. He is also hard of hearing but with the clip and subtitles on the TV, he can now enjoy movies with his family.”

The practice doesn’t have a set low vision clinic, and patients are booked for an assessment with Jess if the optometrist spots that they need more assistance with their vision. Jess says: “I assess the patients and their needs, then I demonstrate the tools we keep within practice or can order in.”

Jess is keen to develop the low vision services on offer: “We want to offer a more rounded service and are looking at digital devices. They are not for everyone, but we work in a fairly affluent area. It is good to be able to have the knowledge and ability to call on all the different options. We can get Associated

WHAT IS A CERTIFIED LOW VISION THERAPIST? A Certified Low Vision Therapist (CLVT) uses functional vision evaluation instruments to assess visual acuity, visual fields, contrast sensitivity function, colour vision, stereopsis, visual perceptual and visual motor functioning, literacy skills in reading and writing, etc, as they relate to vision impairment and disability.

The CLVT also evaluates work history, educational performance, assistive daily

living and interactive assistive daily living performance, use of technology, quality of life and aspects of psychosocial and cognitive function.

The CLVT qualification is open to people from a range of backgrounds.

Find out more at www.acvrep.org/certifications/clvt

Optical to come in and demonstrate digital devices, so it is important to make patients aware of them.”

The pandemic has increased the number of patients coming into practice for low vision assistance. Jess feels that patients are more aware that the team are there for them now.

She says: "People who had relied on the low vision service in hospital prepandemic are now coming to us; people want to stay local and utilise the High Street. When one tells another about what we offer, it soon spirals.”

Speaking to all dispensing opticians, Jess says: “We have the ability and tools, we can do our job as dispensing opticians, and we need to continually enrich the knowledge we have to really help people with low vision.”

RESOURCES The International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation's 13th International Low Vision Conference, titled 'Imaging the impossible', takes place from 5-8 July 2022 at the Convention Centre Dublin, Ireland. Nicholas Collins will be presenting on how to use filters more methodically in low vision practice.

Find out more at https://vision2022dublin.com Optima Low Vision offers a practical training session for dispensing opticians doing courses at ABDO College or Anglia Ruskin University. The residential course takes place over three weeks and combines initial observation in clinic, with practice under supervision. Contact Optima Low Vision via www.optimalowvision.co.uk to find out about the next event.

ANTONIA CHITTY BSC (HONS), MA, MCOPTOM, MCIPR is ABDO head of communications and IT and author of 20 books.

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PROFILE – ABDO BOARD MEMBERS NICKY COLLINSON

Welcome on board A BDO has welcomed three new members to the board of directors following the recent board elections. They are: Joshua Smith, Gill Bickle and Peter Black. Also re-elected to serve a second, three-year term is Julie Lees. In this profile feature, we learn more about each board member and how they hope to help propel ABDO members' interests forwards.

PROTECTING GRASSROOTS INTERESTS Most people in optics will know Gill Bickle MSc, BSc, FBDO CL, Cert.Ed. through her teaching roles at City & Islington College and ABDO College. Throughout her teaching career, Gill says she has continually sought to "break down and deliver all subjects in a manner that makes the courses accessible – regardless of the student's ability or confidence".

So what made Gill embark on a parallel career in teaching post qualification? "Because I wanted the optical courses to provide the skills and training that are fundamental to GILL BICKLE modern High Street practice," she responds. "I was able to fulfil this aim in my role at ABDO College when I was courses coordinator. Through updating the courses, I could ensure that the skills and knowledge required for practice could be met from the outset."

Since qualifying as a dispensing optician in 2003 and a contact lens optician in 2006, Gill has always maintained a role within practice to ensure her own skills and knowledge are upto-date and relevant.

Gill recently transitioned into a role in public health. She explains: "The transferrable skills I have gained through optics, along with my BSc and MSc, have enabled me to start a new role as a health protection practitioner for Public Health England [PHE]."

Gill's main responsibilities at PHE are investigating infectious diseases and ensuring the relevant public health actions are completed to prevent onwards transmission. "This has enhanced my knowledge in infection prevention and control, safeguarding and the management of infectious diseases," she says. "This new role has also widened my scope of practice as a contact lens optician and dispensing optician, and identified some new directions available for ABDO members and the profession overall."

Once settled into her new role, Gill will continue to work in optical practice on a self-employed basis, with the aim of

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"keeping abreast of the needs of the optical profession". Gill also remains the principal examiner for the PQE theoretical examination and a practical examiner for the profession.

On her election to the ABDO board, Gill says: "I was overwhelmed with the amount of support I received from current members in standing for the board. The profession is about to undergo significant change and I want to ensure these changes reflect the needs of practice and ABDO members.

"I also want to bring my new experiences to the profession to improve our scope of practice within ophthalmic public health on the High Street, as well as in specialist settings," Gill concludes.

To get in touch with Gill, email gbickle@abdoboard.org.uk

SCIENTIFIC APPROACH TO PROGRESS Prior to sinking his teeth into the optical profession, Joshua Smith BSc (Hons), FBDO, Prof. Cert. LV, PG Cert. was a specialist dental nurse working in both the UK and the UAE. Joshua tells Dispensing Optics: "I had worked in JOSHUA SMITH dentistry for many years and really enjoyed the patient contact, and seeing patients under my care benefit from my skills. But I wanted a career that would allow for progression, as well as the chance to marry my passion for science with patient contact. I started researching roles and stumbled upon dispensing optics; I immediately knew that it was the role for me."

Joshua has worked within the profession for the past six years, and qualified as a dispensing optician in 2019. He currently works at both Sheffield and Leeds teaching hospitals where, along with dispensing, he helps to run specialist low vision and medical contact lens clinics as part of his contact lens optician training. He also assists with refractive surgery assessments.

Joshua is "extremely passionate about the roles that dispensing opticians undertake, whether this be in primary or secondary care, or education and product sales".

Throughout his career, Joshua has always striven for dispensing optician recognition and development, and has been a keen supporter of the education of fellow members. On joining the ABDO board, Joshua hopes to "take this desire to a national audience and represent every member of our Association".

Having worked in both multiple and independent practices, Joshua believes he benefits from an in-depth understanding of what all practitioners face on a daily basis. "This," he says,

"include the challenges of deregulation and the threat of online sales, coupled with changes in infrastructure that continue to fail us.

"I believe I have the strength, dedication and passion to be another voice for the profession – and to stand up and represent all ABDO members, no matter where they work," he declares.

Further to this, Joshua believes that being an ABDO board member will help him to promote "a transparent and inclusive Association that meets members' needs by focusing on what they want; having the conversations that need to be had, and ensuring that members are aware of the paths their Association is taking," he concludes.

Contact Joshua by emailing jsmith@abdoboard.org.uk

WIDER VIEW OF OPTICS A past president of ABDO, Peter Black MBA, FBDO, FEAOO qualified and registered as a dispensing optician in 1989 following a pre-registration year with Conlons Opticians after studying full time at Glasgow Caledonian University. He remained with Conlons until 2014, occupying a variety of roles – from mobile dispensing optician then practice manager to become company training manager then special projects manager responsible for practice computerisation.

On completing an MBA, Peter became a company director in 2003, responsible for several practices, patient recall and database marketing, plus staff development. After PETER BLACK Conlons, Peter joined Boots Opticians professional services as the most senior dispensing optician within the business with responsibility for dispensing standards.

"I am grateful to both companies for supporting me in my term of office as an ABDO board member and then as ABDO president ending in 2016," says Peter.

In 2017, Peter was awarded Fellowship of the European Academy of Optometry and Optics, and shortly after became a freelance consultant specialising in optical retail business improvement, training, and advice. A contract with the University of Central Lancashire in Preston led directly to his current role as course lead for the BSc Ophthalmic Dispensing, an accelerated two-year degree recently given full approval by the General Optical Council (GOC), offering a blended learning route to FBDO and GOC registration.

Peter regularly contributes CET articles including to optical journals and presents CET/CPD at conferences throughout the UK and abroad. In October 2019, he was awarded the Dispensing Optics Readership Prize for best CET article, and the Vision UK John Thompson Memorial Award for his involvement with the nationwide CET roadshow, Seeing Beyond the Eyes.

On the future of the profession, and his new role on the ABDO board, Peter says: "I see a number of challenges facing ABDO and its members over the next few years as a result of the

Covid-19 pandemic, which has had a detrimental effect on examination numbers.

"Combined with the challenges of the GOC’s Education Strategic Review, these will present both operational and financial challenges to the Association at a time when many members are also facing similar situations. Aspirations to increase scope of practice – in terms of increasing the number of restricted dispensing categories to protect more patients who are at risk of harm – is in line with current ABDO initiatives."

Peter believes that his work with the European Council of Optometry and Optics as chair of the UK’s Joint Optical Committee to Europe (JOCEU) has shown him that "the rightful border between optometry and optics lies on the health side of the prescribing of spectacles".

Email pblack@abdoboard.org.uk

MULTI-DISCIPLINARY FOCUS Julie Lees FBDO first joined the ABDO board in October 2018, and will now serve for a further three years following her re-election.

Julie qualified in 1976, having studied for her ABDO Level 6 professional qualification at Bradford College. Over the next 20 years, she gained a wealth of experience in the industry prior to joining Bradford College as a full-time lecturer in ophthalmic dispensing in 1997. In 2015, Julie was JULIE LEES appointed head of faculty for applied sciences at Bradford College, specialising in ophthalmic dispensing and ophthalmic dispensing management.

Since gaining her FBDO, Julie has been actively involved with both ABDO and the GOC. She is an ABDO theory and practical examiner, both in the UK and overseas, and an external examiner for the ophthalmic dispensing courses at City and Islington College, Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Central Lancashire.

Commenting on her re-election, Julie says: "’I am delighted to be re-elected to the board and will continue to support all ABDO members, who should be recognised for the highly skilled qualities they bring to the workplace.

"One of the current issues facing the profession is the ageing population, which will have a profound effect on optical services. A dispensing optician is often the first point of contact with the patient, so the ability to recognise an eye condition and give appropriate advice is becoming ever more important.

"I believe that by offering CET and additional training in this area, dispensing opticians will up-skill and gain the confidence and ability to become even more valuable members of a multidisciplinary team."

Email jlees@abdoboard.org.uk

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REPORT – ASTON OPTOMETRY DR ELIZABETH BARTLAM

t can sometimes be difficult to ensure all patients are empowered with ‘all’ the knowledge that they need now – or perhaps in the future. To combat this, the Optometry Department at Aston University has created an annual Patient Information Conference (PIC).

Speakers are invited to come and talk to the patients who attend the year three teaching clinic; these speakers can be from frame or lens companies, sight loss charities and technology firms, or they can be researchers and the patients themselves.

All the talks have to be educational to ensure empowerment and knowledge transfer, enabling important messages to be voiced and raising awareness of sight loss and the help available. We also use the event to hear thoughts and feedback from patients that feeds into our teaching clinics, to ensure our future professionals understand what is important to the end user.

Many of the people who attend have a visual impairment, know someone with a visual impairment, or are simply very interested in learning new things. When attendees are patients, they do not always see what goes on in the rest of the department – so they usually enjoy going ‘behind the scenes’ on the day.

Our 2021 conference took place on 21 July with limited numbers and procedures in place to mitigate the spread of Covid19. However, the limited numbers did not deter our fantastic speakers. These included Linda Ellis from the Macular Society, discussing macular disease in detail and updating attendees on the support available for patients. James Derrington from Essilor taught patients about UV light and UV protection, and shared the results of a study the company undertook surveying public knowledge of UV protection and the use of photochromic lenses.

Ed Teall from Optelec discussed low vision solutions and showcased optical character recognition technology; while

I

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Photo from stock

Empowering the patient

PATIENTS CAN LEARN MORE ABOUT SUPPORT TOOLS

Mark Belcher from the sight loss charity Henshaws informed people about assistive technology, life hacks and how the charity supports people with a visual impairment. Mark also introduced the Henshaws Knowledge Village, an online resource sharing useful knowledge about techniques and applications that may help a person who has a visual impairment.

SHARING EXPERT KNOWLEDGE The conference also provides the chance for researchers within the department to educate attendees about their current studies. This year, Dr Sonia Trave-Huarte addressed the conference patients on the subject of dry eye, the dry eye clinic and the research currently being undertaken within the department.

We also have a regular attendee slot each year, which can be taken up by someone with experience of sight loss.

As professionals, we recognise that the person with sight loss is the expert in their eye condition and we learn so much from them when they become our teacher. The attendee speaker can discuss anything they feel might be beneficial to others, and we are

exceptionally grateful to those who step up to the plate – as it is quite a brave thing to do.

There is always great engagement between the attendees and speakers, particularly over lunch and refreshments – giving patients a chance to speak more informally about their personal circumstances to fellow experts.

This year, our speakers kindly gave permission to have their talks recorded to help spread the messages to more people via social media.

In previous years, we have had people talking about anything from assistance available for those with sight loss at airports, glaucoma, diabetes, sight loss enabled holidays and what it is like to grow up as a person with a visual impairment.

Overall, it is a great hub of knowledge sharing and the feedback we receive is always very positive. It is gratifying to know that the hard work that goes into organising the conference, and the effort from the speakers preparing, travelling and providing their informative talks, as well as the effort involved in attending, is so worthwhile.

If any reader has a patient/s they think would benefit from attending this conference, they would be very welcome.

We are also looking for speakers each year, so any company or charity interested in providing an informative talk to empower and raise awareness are invited to email e.a.bartlam@aston.ac.uk Conference videos can be viewed at www.facebook.com/optometryclinics DR ELIZABETH BARTLAM BSC (HONS), DOPHSC, FBDO (HONS) LVA, SMC (TECH), AFHEA is a teaching fellow and third-year tutor in optometry at Aston University.

REGION UPDATE – NORTH OF ENGLAND RICHARD RAWLINSON

Service rolling out his month's update focuses on NHS England's roll-out of the NHS Special School Eye Care Service (SSECS) in which dispensing opticians (DOs) have a fundamental role to play. The SSECS aims to provide sight tests and spectacles on-site for every child with a learning disability and/or autism attending a special school in England. A proof of concept is being rolled out in the North West of England, with the North East and London to follow before extending across the whole of England.

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According to SeeAbility, children with learning disabilities are 28 times more likely to have a serious sight problem. Peer-reviewed research has shown that thousands of children with disabilities across the country are missing out on the eyecare they need. More than four in 10 pupils seen as part of the research had no history of eye exams or eyecare, and yet half had a problem with their eyes or vision, and at least a third needed glasses.

One of the founding principles of the SSECS is to deliver eye healthcare on-site at special schools to reduce the inequality in health services provision this cohort of patients experience.

WORKING AS A TEAM The Special Schools Eye Care Team (SSECT) comprises of the DO and optometrist working alongside each other autonomously in a busy environment. The SSECS is competency based, and so only a qualified DO or optometrist can supply spectacles to children and/or patients who are sight impaired or severely sight impaired.

The DO's role is to dispense the spectacles, ensuring they meet the child’s needs, including aftercare such as repairs and adjustments. The DO will also provide ongoing support with adapting to spectacles, as well as clinical advice on visual abilities in the classroom. This could include best positioning and using spectacles with communications technology such as Eye Gaze.

The fee structure and pathway has, therefore, been based on a DO providing this element of the service alongside an optometrist. NHS England is not using the GOS voucher system for the service, and so there is a standard £116 fee per student appointment. Providers will be reimbursed at cost for the provision of frames and lenses, to ensure that every child receives the most appropriate prescription/frames for their needs without financial constraints. Payment for repairs and replacements will cover the cost of all materials.

The service element of the dispensing, i.e. the cost of the clinician’s time, is covered by the sight test fee.

FAR-REACHING BENEFITS SSECTs across the UK have demonstrated benefits in many areas, reports the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. These include: • Identifying previously undiagnosed visual impairment in children who cannot access regular optometry assessments • Providing Easy Read reports for parents, carers, teachers and other healthcare professionals • Signposting resources and strategies for parents and teachers of children with visual impairment • Improving uptake of spectacle wear and providing teachers with strategies to improve spectacle adaptation, offering in school dispensing and repairs

GETTING INVOLVED NHS England and NHS Improvement (NHSEI) are responsible for commissioning and delivering the SSECS nationally through an appointed network of clinicians.

DOs who are interested in becoming providers should email england.specialschooleyecareservice@nhs.net with the following information: 1) full name; 2) practice name; 3) full practice address and postcode; 4) contact telephone number. Once received, you will be registered on an 'interested clinicians' database and further information about the service will be forwarded.

ABDO has been a key stakeholder in the development of the SSECS framework and hosted a national webinar on 8 December 2020, which included a session on the service. Further details can be found in the Special Schools Service section of the ABDO website.

ABDO has also been commissioned to produce eight model paediatric heads, each representing a different facial characteristic or age; the Association is also in discussions regarding the need and/or possibility of developing a bespoke training programme specifically for DOs. Watch 'NHS Special School Eye Care Service – Clinicians' on Vimeo at https://vimeo.com/477240152 – and find out how DOs and optometrists are making a difference to children who attend special schools.

RICHARD RAWLINSON FBDO is ABDO regional lead for the North of England, Midlands and East of England. He is LOCSU optical lead, and a trustee of Vision Aid Overseas.

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JOTTINGS MARTIN GOLDMAN

Playing by the book hroughout my four decades-long career in optics, I have offered advice to companies and/or management that has been rejected – and then subsequently adopted. In my recently published book on the delights of running and managing an optical practice, there are many, many instances of ‘I told you so’, which I found amusing at the time. iC Through the Eyes of an Optician relates to the trials and tribulations of my journey in optics – from inception to almost retirement – but mostly the constant challenge of trying to do what is best for the practice whilst following head office directions and adhering to all the guidance and laws. It is written for everyone I have known or met during my journey: family, friends, representatives, patients and acquaintances, most of whom will have heard at least one of the stories recounted.

I remember my first week at Bradford College meeting new friends, four of whom later became colleagues. Two are mentioned in my book; in particular a young woman who sat on the windowsill one warm day, lightly clothed, whilst I froze in my coat. Mark and Fiona are now colleagues at Asda Optical and it is a pleasure to meet them at conferences. That young woman, Christine, on the windowsill became my girlfriend at college, and it was with deep sorrow that I heard of her passing. A significant loss to all.

After completing my exams at Bradford, the college wrote informing me that I was possibly the first student to pass all three boards exams – at least from Bradford.

From there, I undertook my pre-reg at Dollond & Aitchison and worked at various branches before moving to Alfred Hawes & Son, later taken over by TH Collison. I was with Optical Express for a short while before moving on to Asda Opticians, where I continue to practise.

Over 44 years of practising, I am still learning and keen to do so – having completed courses in contact lenses, low vision, orthokeratology and post laser consultations. I am watching advances in myopia control and medical contact lens technology with interest and, even though I may not practise myopia control myself, I’d like to be in a position to advise patients with confidence.

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PUTTING PEN TO PAPER I have witnessed many faux pas during my time, and I have a tendency to relate these stories to colleagues – ad nauseam I think. I had so many of these stories swirling around in my head that my wife suggested I put

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them into a book. And so I did – during my 'imprisonment', care of the pandemic.

My father was also an optician, 007 was his number, and I have included some of his stories. He took over an old established practice, which had its own workshop, stock and, most importantly, glass eyes. He tried to pioneer the use of auto-refraction, which was a disaster, and had a novel approach to safe security. He stuck a note to his safe, stating: "If you find any money in here, go halves please".

He only kept the safe because it was too heavy to move.

Those who know me are aware of my dark humour and ability to get into trouble by speaking out. For example, one regional Dedicated to all those I have known manager had us all gathered to outline a new 24-hour service. Questions anyone? Guess who piped up: "What if they don’t arrive in 24 hours?’" The reply: "They will. We guarantee it".

Again: "Yes, so what if they don’t arrive?" Answer: "They will. We guarantee it!" My inevitable response was: "Yes, but what do we do if they don’t? Do we give the specs free, discounted or what?" The manager became red faced and I let him off the hook in the end, since he really couldn't answer. iC Through the Eyes of an Optician is dedicated to all those I have had the pleasure to meet during my career.

Only the reader can make their own judgement as to its validity. Either way, I hope everyone who reads it enjoys it.

As I am a trustee for the Bournemouth Blind Society, I am donating 20 per cent of profits from the book to the charity. It can be ordered via Amazon or direct by emailing me at martinbook@virginmedia.com Martin Goldman FBDO is a contact lens optician for Asda Opticians based in Dorset.

EYECARE FAQ

OA CORNER PART 10

SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS: THINK SEASONALLY

SPECTACLE Rxs PART 2

he next three months are great for seasonal social media campaigns. Use Halloween to highlight the dangers of cosmetic contact lens misuse. There is also Bonfire Night and, of course, Christmas. Share photos of your themed practice displays, and highlight Christmas gift accessories and winter sports eyewear.

In October, EyecareFAQ will highlight low vision, provide answers to common questions about macular degeneration and keratoconus, as well as explain the importance of purchasing cosmetic contact lenses from registered optical practices. Don’t forget World Sight Day on 14 October.

Find Q&As on more eyecare and eyewear topics on the ABDO website under Information for the public.

REMEMBER: you can find EyecareFAQ on the ABDO website, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

In Optical Assistant (OA) Corner last month, dispensing optician Sue Deal took a basic prescription and looked at how the OA could discuss its content with the patient.

This month, Sue will explain the remaining elements of the spectacle prescription example – prism and the addition – and how how these relate to the patient's visual correction needs.

The aim is to provide the OA with a better understanding of how to explain a prescription to a patient should they ask you to do so.

Read OA Corner Part 10 in full on DO Online.

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UNDERSTANDING PRISMS AND ADDS

BUSINESS BITES THE MAGIC OF MENTORING The magic of mentoring in engaging and developing the potential of individuals is evident daily, and the statistics back this up.

More than 70 per cent of Fortune 500 and private companies use mentoring to attract, develop and retain talent as well as boost productivity.

An Account Temp survey of the Fortune 500 companies discovered that one of the top three factors affecting career growth amongst senior leaders was mentoring.

Findings published in June 2019 by the Association of Accounting Technicians revealed that whilst 37 per cent of members said they would like their organisation to run a formal mentoring programme, only one in 12 members reported that their organisation currently ran one.

specific challenges to work together on these issues and provide mutual support. It is a refreshing and revealing way to exchange ideas and knowledge.

The many benefits of mentoring – for both mentor and mentee – include increased confidence, motivation, innovation, productivity, collaboration, recognition, appreciation, engagement and fulfilment.

MENTORING IS MUTUALLY BENEFICIAL

Mentoring also encourages goal Do you have spells to share with peers? setting, which is important in helping work performance. Yet for many professionals, goal-setting discussions in the workplace just never happen.

Peer-to-peer mentoring is an area that has become increasingly popular. The pandemic period has thrown up lots of challenges that have been completely new to all of us, so peer-to-peer mentoring has proven to be a real benefit in terms of enabling professionals who are facing

So, if you think you could benefit from either becoming a mentor or a mentee, why not look at the ABDO mentoring programme. Details can be found at https://abdo.onpld.com

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NOTICES ARE YOU DOING SOMETHING DIFFERENT? NEW SERIES Dispensing Optics is looking for DOs doing something different when they're not working in practice – who would like to talk about their creative side project, business or hobby for a new series.

Whether you bake amazing cakes, run a pop-up shop, have a sideline in photography, arts or crafts – we want to hear from you.

Email Antonia Chitty at achitty@abdo.org.uk to discuss this further.

SAVE THE DATE

Sunday 1 1.00am - 21 November 2021 ABDO will be holding its annual meeting, the annual meeting of the ABDO Benevolent Fund, and its Consultation Day with members from 1 1.00am on Sunday 21 November 2021, at the ABDO National Resource Centre.

Reserve your place by visiting the Events section of the ABDO website. The Consultation Day will be live-streamed for those unable to attend.

Visit DO Online Jobs Vacancies to place your recruitment adverts – or search for new opportunities. Your advert will reach some 8,000 ABDO members via eNews direct, making DO Online one of the most cost-effective platforms for DO recruitment.

Vacancies are also promoted through ABDO’s active social media channels. FREE BRONZE ADVERTS FOR MEMBERS.

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abdo COLLEGE BOOKSHOP

Books and Equipment from ABDO College Make ABDO College your first choice for competitively priced: • Rules, gauges and charts.

• Dispensing, optometry, ophthalmology, contact lens books.

• Essential packs of books for student DOs. • Useful study guides. eBooks now available for a range of key texts.

Order online at abdocollege.org.uk/bookshop/ Items not listed on the website can be sourced for you.

Email jhall@abdocollege.org.uk or call 01227 733904

KEEPING EXCELLENCE IN YOUR SIGHTS

NETWORKING AND EDUCATION

As well as money saving benefits and rewards, your ABDO membership provides continuing education to help you achieve your GOC CET requirements and enhance your clinical and professional skills.

Online CET

ABDO MEMBER BENEFITS INCLUDE: • Professional indemnity insurance • Personal accident cover • Helplines - FREE 24-hour service • CET • Dispensing Optics • Access to selected British Standards

CET from ABDO can be accessed online for the remainder of 2021. Distance learning articles from Dispensing Optics and recorded lectures are in the CET section of your membership dashboard. Book interactive CET via webinars and discussion-based workshops on the events page of the ABDO website.

• Cashback on everyday purchases

In 2022 members can enjoy the best of both worlds, with new face-to-face events alongside continued access to interactive and non-interactive CPD online.

• 17% off worldwide attraction tickets

• Member benefit plans with HMCA • Access to over 3,000 + health clubs, gyms and leisure centres • Savings on all your travel needs • Totum card powered by NUS Extra • Save 20% on Columbus Direct travel insurance policies • Mobile phones on the best rates available from EE • Savings on Apple products • Membership of the International Opticians Association

Find out more at www.abdo.org.uk/CET

• Advice and Guidelines

NETWORKING AND EDUCATION

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

FINANCE AND ADVICE