Plymouth opticians offer free eye tests and glasses for people experiencing homelessness

Free eye tests and glasses for Plymouth people experiencing homelessness are being provided by opticians at specially created monthly clinics.

The clinic is part of an initiative by Specsavers to improve access to eyecare for all, forming part of its sustainability communities strategy.

Helen Rixson, Specsavers ophthalmic director in Plymouth, says: ‘The first clinic was a great success – and we’re now calling on charities, residents and businesses to help raise awareness of the scheme.

‘One in three people experiencing homelessness have sight issues but may face barriers to accessing eye health care. We’re so pleased to be holding these clinics outside of usual trading hours, in a quieter environment, which we hope will help put people at ease and give them the ophthalmic care they need.’

The free eye tests provide all the high-tech services the store has on offer, including the hospital-grade Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology, which allows optometrists to take a 3D image of the back of the eye to help detect early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

Any glasses provided will also be free of charge, regardless of the person’s NHS status.

The clinic will be running once a month, and appointments must be booked in advance. To book an appointment call 01752 253434.

Plymouth’s Armada Way store is one of 44 Specsavers stores across the UK and Ireland trialling out-of-hours optics clinics, in collaboration with their nearest homelessness charity or organisation.