Honey Rose sentence hearing
AOP media statement
Suspended sentence
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is aware that AOP member Ms Honey Rose was today given a two-year suspended sentence in the case of Vincent Barker.
Ms Rose was convicted of gross negligence manslaughter in July 2016.
This tragic case has had devastating consequences for all involved.
The case, a criminal one involving an optometrist on clinical matters, is the first of its kind in the UK. There are millions (1) of sight tests undertaken in the UK each year. Optometrists adhere to strict standards of practice set out by the regulatory body, the General Optical Council (GOC).
The AOP can confirm that a leave of appeal is being sought by Ms Rose. Due to the ongoing Fitness to Practise hearing that Ms Rose faces before the GOC we are unable to comment further at this time.
(1) Optics at a Glance 2014, Optical Confederation reported 22.54 NHS and private sight tests in the UK in 2014
Ends
For more information, please contact Serena Box, PR and Media Manager, at the Association of Optometrists, [email protected] or telephone 020 7549 2063.
Notes to Editors
Association of Optometrists
The Association of Optometrists (AOP) is the leading representative membership organisation for optometrists and other optical professionals in the UK. We support our community of more than 16,500 members to fulfil their professional roles to protect the nation’s eye health.
Optometrists and eye health
Optometrists are eye health professionals and the services they provide are far wider than a simple test to determine whether glasses or contact lenses are required to correct vision. A sight test is not about getting a pair of glasses – it is a vital health check for your eyes.
As well as an eye health check, a sight test might detect signs of underlying general health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Everyone should have a sight test every two years, or more often if your optometrist recommends it. Visit our For patients section for more.