Practice expands ‘sensory’ clinics

Successful practice trial expanded

A practice in North Yorkshire is running out-of-hours clinics to provide individuals with hypersensitivities a supportive environment to have their eyes examined.

The team at Specsavers practice on Castlegate, Malton, is providing their usual eye health care service from 5:15pm to 7pm on 7 and 17  November in a quieter setting, allowing visitors to feel comfortable – following a successful clinic at the end of October.

The aim is to offer patients who experience sensory overload and hypersensitivities a space where they can feel calm, as appointments.

Each session includes a selection of sensory toys, such as fidget poppers, twisty bands and squeeze balls, allowing patients to use them to relax and ease any anxiety.

Rachel Patience, assistant manager at Specsavers Malton, said: “We understand that healthcare settings can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming, making communication challenging, especially for those struggling with sensory overload or neurodiverse conditions. That’s why we decided to create an alternative space where people can feel more comfortable and calmer.”

Cover image from stock.