MP visits Barnstaple independent

MP for North Devon, Peter Heaton-Jones, has visited independent opticians Eyewear Creations to find out about the importance of eye care and the growing role that community optometry is playing in its delivery.

Attending the Barnstaple-based independent last month, Mr Heaton-Jones met with Devon Local Optical Committee (LOC) member Jane Williams, owner of Eyewear Creations, and LOC chair, Jonathan Drew. During the visit he observed the work in the practice and was told how community eye care is being delivered outside of the standard sight test.

Reflecting on the visit, Mr Heaton-Jones said: "I was delighted to visit Eyewear Creations and experience for myself the state-of-the-art technology being used there. It was also extremely helpful to talk to representatives of the Devon LOC about the increasingly vital role opticians play in delivering primary care services.

“Optometrists are now able to do so much more than check your eyesight: they can often be the first to recognise a range of potentially serious conditions. I hope the NHS can take advantage of this expertise to assist with the efficient delivery of patient care across North Devon.”