Volunteer opticians from Vision Care for Homeless People saw 327 patients at London’s Crisis clinics this Christmas. Hundreds of pairs of specs were dispensed to people living on the streets with uncorrected vision which leaves them very vulnerable: one 28 year old was diagnosed as being -15.00 dioptres and he did not have any specs. Many were referred to hospital for ophthalmic treatment or further investigations.

Frequently subjected to violence, the homeless face barriers to accessing eyecare and many rely on the year-round services of the charity which now has eight regional centres.  The charity is facilitated by donations and the goodwill of the optical profession and optical suppliers.

www.visioncarecharity.org