MP visits cataract surgery clinic

Lilian Greenwood MP with Dr Stephen Hannan

Nottingham South MP Lilian Greenwood visited Nottingham ACES clinic last month to see how community‑based eyecare services are helping to reduce NHS waiting lists. 

Since opening in December 2024, the ACES clinic has expanded access to cataract surgery based on clinical need, with some patients receiving surgery within 14 days. 

The minister for transport said: “It was great to see the exceptional work happening here at ACES. Improving access to eyecare is not only vital for reducing NHS waiting lists, but also for supporting people to stay active, independent and safe.

“Cataracts and other sight conditions can significantly increase the risk of falls, mobility issues and road accidents. It is clear that improving eye health – and ensuring people get treatment quickly – must be part of our approach to keeping everyone safe on our roads and in their communities.

“Clinics like this show how community-based services can deliver rapid, high-quality care while supporting wider health and safety priorities.”

Dr Stephen Hannan, clinical services director for ACES, said: “We were delighted to welcome Lilian Greenwood to the clinic and show the impact our team has had over the past year. 

“By delivering timely cataract surgery in a community setting, we are not only improving patients’ vision and wellbeing but also helping reduce risks linked to sight impairment, including those highlighted in the government’s new road safety strategy.

“The quality of life improvement is evident from engaging with patients that utilise the service.”