Night hike for homeless challenge
Night Walk offers varied distances
ABDO members are being encouraged to take action in support of people experiencing homelessness, as Vision Care prepares to take part in the London Walk on Friday 20 March 2026 — a sponsored overnight challenge organised by national homelessness membership charity Homeless Link.
Among those taking part is past ABDO president, Jo Holmes, who has been volunteering as a dispensing optician (DO) with Vision Care since stepping away from practice last October.
Jo said: “As dispensing opticians, helping people to see is fundamental to who we are. Volunteering at Vision Care clinics took me straight back to my roots and reminded me why I entered the profession in the first place. At these clinics, everything else is stripped away – you meet people who are simply trying to survive. Untreated vision issues can be yet another barrier for people experiencing homelessness, and that’s something our profession can help to address.”
The London Walk offers three distances – 10km, half marathon or marathon – through central London, starting and finishing near Trafalgar Square.
Past ABDO president, Jo Holmes, will be taking part
Jo will be joined by fellow Vision Care supporters, volunteers and staff, including Stephen Pratt, DO and static clinic manager, and operations manager Tony Wing, also a DO.
Stephen, who is taking on the marathon distance, said: “Accessible eyecare plays a crucial role in reducing health inequalities. Through Vision Care, dispensing opticians are able to deliver practical, life-changing support to people who would otherwise go without. Taking part in the London Walk is one way we can raise awareness within our profession and help ensure these vital services continue to reach those most in need.”
Vision Care is encouraging ABDO members, optical practices and industry partners to take part.
Vision Care fundraiser, Alison Gordon, said: “This is our second year taking part in the London Walk. In 2025, we had 14 walkers – including several optical staff from partner organisations – and raised £12,000. It was challenging but also great fun. We’d love even more people to join us this year. With three distances available, it’s an accessible and rewarding way for ABDO members to support eyecare for people experiencing homelessness and is a perfect team or individual challenge.”
ABDO members wishing to join the Vision Care team can secure a place via the ‘I want to walk’ registration link, and select Vision Care for Homeless People as their chosen charity.
Alternatively, email alison@visioncarecharity.org.uk for more information.