Children’s eye health campaign

Rhiannon Evans, Mumsnet head of communications and public affairs

A nationwide campaign calling for greater awareness of children’s vision care will be launched this month – spearheaded by parenting platform Mumsnet.

As previously reported, ABDO, the College of Optometrists and the Optical Suppliers Association (OSA) commissioned Mumsnet in 2024 to help promote awareness of children’s vision and related eye health issues.

As part of the project, Mumsnet researchers data mined nearly 8,000 conversations about children’s vision that had taken place on the platform over the past five years.

In addition, Mumsnet undertook a survey of its members to gauge their understanding about the importance of regular eye examinations, the role of different eyecare professionals, the importance of correctly dispensed spectacles, and their knowledge of myopia control. This was completed by a total of 1,008 users of the platform.

Topline findings have been released to the consumer media today (Tuesday 8 April) calling for greater attention to be given to children’s vision – and shared on the Mumsnet website.

Noting that a “relaxed parental view of eyecare comes at a time when childhood myopia is increasing”, Mumsnet highlighted a survey finding that revealed that parents felt visits to their High Street opticians were less important than a visit to the dentist.

It also found that nine per cent of parents “saw no reason to take their child to the optometrist unless an issue is flagged up as a cause for concern”.

“It’s clear from what Mumsnet users have told us that there is a huge amount of confusion around children’s eye health, and while dental check-ups are a priority, eye tests often aren’t,” Rhiannon Evans, Mumsnet head of communications and public affairs, is quoted as saying.

“Our survey shows that many parents are confused about when and where to seek eyecare for their kids, and they would welcome clearer information and better access to support. It’s essential that families receive the guidance they need to look after their children’s vision. Our survey demonstrates the desire for parents to do the best they can for their children.”

Max Halford, ABDO clinical and policy director, told DO Online: “ABDO and the College of Optometrists are fully aligned in their commitment to ensuring that children visiting High Street practices across the UK receive the highest standard of eyecare – and the best possible advice from optometrists and dispensing opticians.

“Through our collaboration with Mumsnet, and with the support of the Optical Suppliers Association, we now have valuable data to identify areas where parents are unsure about children’s eye health. This data will enable practice teams to step in and provide clarity where needed to reassure parents and help them make the best possible decisions about their children’s eye health.

“We will be publishing the full report later this month – and will share this directly with members to support conversations in practice around children’s vision and eye health,” added Max.

In preparation for the campaign launch, ABDO will support its members by highlighting available resources to help dispensing opticians deliver exemplary children’s eyecare in their practices.