Independent optometrist provides eye care to homeless people

A Sheffield-based independent practice owner has been hosting a clinic in the city to provide eye care for homeless people.

Victoria Smith offers the monthly sight-testing clinic in partnership with Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind.

The optometrist has been attending the Archer Project close to Sheffield cathedral since April this year to provide eye care.

She has seen 32 patients, prescribing spectacles when needed. The spectacles are donated by Dunelm Optical and the lenses are provided by Zeiss.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms Smith said: “The patients are lovely people, so appreciative. It is a very rewarding thing to do and makes you feel as if you are giving something back to the community.”

For more information on setting up your own clinic to provide eye care to homeless people, visit Vision Care for Homeless People’s website. The charity has also produced an advice pack that is available to support practitioners in establishing their own clinics.