ABDO relaunches Hamblin Memorial Prize

ABDO has relaunched the Hamblin Memorial Prize with a refreshed criteria focusing on ‘innovation in practice, education, research or promoting the profession’.

The Hamblin Memorial Prize was first instigated by Paul Hamblin whilst chairman of historic British dispensing opticians (DO) firm, Theodore Hamblin Opticians.

“Originally intended to honour those whose profession had been dispensing optics, and last bestowed in 2023, the Hamblin Memorial Prize has been updated and refreshed in this centenary year for the profession with a focus on innovation,” explained Gavin Berkerey, ABDO director of communications and engagement.

From this year onwards, the award will be made annually – ‘To recognise exceptional service to the advancement of opticians through innovation in practice, education, research or promoting the profession’ – and will once again be accompanied by a £200 prize.

“We are delighted that Boots Opticians is returning as the sponsor of the Prize,” Gavin continued. “We have appointed a new Hamblin Memorial Prize Awarding Panel – members of which offer the wide range of expertise and knowledge necessary to consider nominations against the restated purpose.“

Sarah Gilbert

Championing the profession

The new Awarding Panel includes Sarah Gilbert, director of development at Boots Opticians, and herself a DO. We spoke to Sarah about the company’s continued support for the award…

Why is Boots Opticians proud to continue sponsoring the ABDO Hamblin Memorial Prize?

As a medical doctor himself, Paul Hamblin fully understood the importance of optics and its place in providing patients with the best possible vision – the original multi-disciplinary team. At Boots Opticians, clinicians are the heart of our business so I am really proud that we continue to sponsor such a worthwhile award that celebrates and champions our profession.

How do you feel the Prize’s updated focus on innovation strengthens its relevance today?

Whilst celebrating our history, we must also look to the future. Our healthcare environment is experiencing an unparalleled rate of change, and we want to recognise exceptional service and showcase where DOs and contact lens opticians are innovating to make a real difference in the lives of our patients and customers.

What kind of impact or contribution do you think should be recognised?

We would like to see different thinking in any area of practice, education, research or promoting the profession. I am really excited to see the nominations we will receive.

Why is innovation so critical to advancing dispensing optics today?

Innovation in general is critical because it enables individuals, organisations, and indeed society to adapt, improve and create value in a changing world. As we aspire to promote awareness of how important the role of the DO is, this Prize showcases the best of the best and the vital role that we play.

Why would you encourage ABDO members to take the time to nominate a colleague?

This Prize is truly special as it is all about us as clinicians taking the time to recognise and thank our colleagues. I would encourage all ABDO members to consider celebrating the brilliant things that we do by submitting a nomination.

What would success look like for the relaunched ABDO Hamblin Memorial Prize over the next few years?

Success for me is for ABDO members to be energised and inspired by the nominations and to give their ideas a go. We can all grow and learn from truly brilliant colleagues, who we believe should receive such well-deserved recognition for their forward-thinking care.

Nominations for the award will close at 5pm on Friday 16 October, and the Prize will be announced by Sarah Gilbert on 3 December.

Find out more about the criteria, and how to submit a nomination.