Practice promotes autism services

From left: James Frith MP, Rebecca Lunness, Suleman Atcha, clinical director of Primary Eyecare Services Wendy Craven, and support worker Hannah Hunt

Leightons Optometrists in Ramsbottom, Greater Manchester, welcomed local MP James Frith recently to demonstrate how they work to improve care for people with learning disabilities and autism.

Adults with a learning disability are 10 times more likely to have a serious sight problem than other people, and children are 28 times more likely, according to the charity SeeAbility. 

In Greater Manchester accredited local eyecare practices, including Leightons in Ramsbottom, are funded by the NHS to provide longer or multiple appointments, along with any adjustments that people with learning disabilities or autism may need. 

The Easy Eye Care Service is commissioned by the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board.

Duringn the visit, principal optometrist, Suleman Atcha, showed how the practice could make adjustments and help people get used to what is involved in having an eye examination. He demonstrated that anyone can get the eyecare support they need, regardless of ability to read or speak. 

The MP also met Rebecca Lunness, one of SeeAbility’s North West Eye Care Champions, who worked with the practice to set up the service.

James Frith MP commented after the visit: “I am thrilled that this service is available in my constituency. Many people with learning disabilities can struggle to find the right eyecare. Rebecca and SeeAbility are doing a fantastic job in raising awareness and ensuring appropriate adjustments are implemented, with wonderful support from local opticians and eyecare bodies.”

Rebecca said: “I really enjoyed talking about the work we are doing as Eye Care Champions to make eyecare more accessible. Adults with a learning disability, like myself, are 10 times more likely to have a serious sight problem than other people. So having easy to read information and appointments with opticians that have had additional training is really important.”

Suleman added: “We are really proud of all the services we offer to the local community at Leightons, and taking part in the Easy Eye Care Service is our most recent venture in supporting the NHS locally to make better use of opticians. We spot things early that can actually save a person’s sight, or may help a carer or supporter understand what the person can see. For people with learning disabilities who might not be able to say there’s a problem, these are some of the reasons this service is so vital.” 

To find out more about the scheme, visit SeeAbility Easy Eye Care Service. For advice on eyecare for children and adults with learning disabilities visit SeeAbility.