AOP launches sector-wide optical workforce survey

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) has commissioned a sector-wide survey, designed to gain an understanding of career aspirations of optometrists and the experiences of employers.

The AOP will use results from Optometrists' Futures: A survey of recruitment, retention and career aspirations of the optometric workforce to inform discussions with employers, public bodies, education providers and other optical bodies – supporting the interests of the wider profession as well as improving services for AOP members specifically.

Chief Executive of the AOP, Henrietta Alderman, said: “We know that one of the biggest issues facing employers in optics, whether independent or multiple, is the recruitment and retention of staff. We also know that the knowledge within the sector about the optometric workforce does not offer any conclusive answers on what motivates practitioners or what factors could change the decisions they make about their careers. We’re therefore keen to hear from optometrists, at all levels and from all backgrounds, to build a picture that is both comprehensive and representative. With that insight we can provide support that is tailored and responsive to the emerging optical landscape.”   

The survey, launching on 18 April to AOP members and non-members, is being conducted by independent, not-for-profit research organisation, the Institute of Employment Studies (IES) who will solely manage and analyse the data results.    

AOP members will receive an email, from IES, on 18 April containing a unique link to complete the survey. Non-members can access the survey at www.aop.org.uk/future.    

If you have any questions about why this survey has been commissioned, and how the data will be used, please contact the AOP’s policy team on [email protected].

Ends

For more information, please contact Serena Box, PR and Media Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2063.

High resolution images can be downloaded from this Dropbox folder. 

Notes to Editors

Association of Optometrists

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists in the UK. We support over 80% of practising optometrists, to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health. As a founding member of the Optical Confederation we work with others to improve eye health for the public good. For more information, visit www.aop.org.uk.