Primary Eyecare Services launches Bright Sight special schools vision service

Primary Eyecare Services (PES) has been awarded a contract to facilitate eye examinations and vision support in specials schools by NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB).

Approximately 4400 children in around 40 special schools in mid and south Essex will be eligible for the Bright Sight service.

The service will connect special schools with local eye care providers, including optometrists, to bring eye care to children with learning disabilities and autism within their familiar school environment. The service will begin on 26 April.

In 2024, the Government committed to facilitating sensory checks, including sight testing, in all day and residential special schools in England.

Children with special educational needs are 28 times more likely than other children to have a serious sight condition, but many face barriers to accessing appointments in the optometry practice setting or in hospitals.

The Bright Sight service will see optometrists use adapted testing methods and specialist equipment, tailored to individual needs, as part of extended sight tests.

Specialist spectacle dispensing, education-focused vision advice for teachers and families, and follow-up support, will also be included as part of the service.

Gavin Rathmell, head of special schools at Primary Eyecare Services, said: “We are thrilled to deliver sight tests in Essex’s special schools, ensuring children with additional needs can access high-quality eye care in a familiar setting.”

He added: “Early identification of vision issues is crucial for their learning and wellbeing. By working together with schools, families and healthcare teams, we aim to make a real difference for these pupils.”

Practitioners interested in facilitating the service should contact Primary Eyecare Services via email.