The discussion and debate on the government’s recently published Road Safety Strategy continues to gather pace, with much agreement on its content but some concern regarding its implementation.
However, colleagues and I agree that we need better public recognition of the role of dispensing opticians (DOs) as the experts in advising on, and fitting, spectacles with lenses and coatings that will optimise drivers’ vision.
We have already seen evidence of drivers reducing their nighttime driving by as much as 75 per cent because “intense headlights make the experience uncomfortable or more difficult” (RAC 2025 headlight glare study). More research is needed to test and develop products that target the vision issues facing drivers, particularly at night time, and ABDO is supportive of this. Engagement with the motor industry is also required to ensure that headlamp design minimises glare for other drivers as well.
As in 2025, I have started to plan my visits to ABDO College, Bradford College and Capital City College to speak with students in their third year of the FBDO course. I am looking forward to hearing about their experiences so far, and their plans for the future once they qualify. I am grateful to all those involved in allowing me to spend this valuable time with the next generation of DOs.
In my role as editor of Ophthalmic Lens Availability Online, I am currently involved with a project to refresh this popular member benefit. We are updating the product listing that feeds into the invaluable ‘Find and compare spectacle lenses’ section – and working to improve the functionality of other elements. If you have any thoughts on any changes you would like to see, then please email me at olaeditor@abdo.org.uk
Important awareness dates for March include Glaucoma Awareness Week (8-14 March) and World Optometry Day (23 March). Both will provide a great opportunity to promote the skills and professionalism of all those working in practices today.
As part of our centenary celebrations, I have already had the pleasure of meeting members in their practices. Please do visit the ‘100 years celebration’ section to find out more and request a practice visit.
If you would like to contact me on any other matter, then please email kgutsell@abdo.org.uk