UK charity SeeAbility has launched a new optometric resource to improve access to eye care for people with learning disabilities.  

Research estimates that patients with learning disabilities are ten times more likely than others to have serious sight problems and, in recent years, vulnerable Britons have not been receiving the optometric treatment or assessments that they need.

In light of this, SeeAbility have set their sights towards local optical committees (LOCs) and Local Eye Health Networks (LEHNs), launching a new resource which will advise such institutions on how to better understand the needs of patients with learning disabilities, and more accurately assess vulnerable people.

“The resource gives LOCs and LEHNs various tips and tricks – from using pictures rather than letters in diagnosis to allowing extra time or multiple appointments so as not to overwhelm a patient,” said Stephen Kill, eye care manager at SeeAbility.

Suggestions for improvement in the resource include enhancements to community sight tests and targeted work in schools, eye health needs assessments and calls for more commissioner-led services for hard-to-reach groups.

Mr Kill hopes the new resource will provide “equal access to services.”