Children affected by Chernobyl disaster given free sight tests

Optical Express has given seven children affected by the Chernobyl disaster free sight tests and spectacles at its Maidstone practice.

Senior optometrist, Clive Burr, carried out the eye tests during the visit, which was facilitated by practice manager, Marie Chapman, in partnership with the Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline charity.

The children have travelled from Belarus and are staying with families in Maidstone as part of a four-week recuperative break, during which time they will take part in local activities and attend medical appointments.

Speaking about the visit, Ms Chapman said: “This will be the fourth year Optical Express has supported Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline’s fantastic cause. We want every child to feel valued and cared for, and we look forward to our ongoing work with the charity.”

Belarus received over 70% of the radioactive fallout following the 1986 disaster in Ukraine and the emissions continue to affect children today.

Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline spokesperson, Gwen Wood, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Optical Express for another year to help the children who potentially suffer from medical illnesses and vision impairments as a result of this fallout. It is important that every child has the right to healthcare and this continued support will make a huge difference to the children’s lives.”