Specsavers Harrogate sponsors ECLO training for local charity volunteer

Specsavers Harrogate has supported a local woman to become an eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO).

Helen McGrath, who was registered blind after experiencing two strokes in 2014, is now an ECLO with sight loss charity Vision Support.

McGrath joined Vision Support as a member in 2016, volunteering as a peer support and telephone befriender. She was asked if she would like to train as an ECLO at the start of 2024.

Specsavers Harrogate then stepped in to support her training.

Andy Bryer, retail director at the practice, said that it had been a privilege to provide Vision Support with funding, which he explained “enables connections between the community and dedicated professionals such as Helen, ensuring they receive the services they need to be independent.”

Harrogate was previously one of only two areas in the UK without access to an NHS-funded ECLO.

“When I lost my sight, I was told I would never work again,” McGrath said. “Thanks to the team at Vision Support, and Specsavers Harrogate’s generous sponsorship, I’ve been able to prove them wrong.”

She added: “This role means a lot to me. It has provided me the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much.”

Bryer shared that it has “been wonderful to watch Helen progress in her role and make a meaningful difference to those living with sight loss.”

He added: “We look forward to continuing our partnership with Vision Support, as well as supporting the people around Harrogate with the essential visual support they deserve.”

McGrath said: “I’m now in a position where I can provide essential support to others on their sight loss journey, helping [them to] feel less isolated and encouraging them to live their lives to the fullest.”