The Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) has visited Specsavers Streatham as part of its year‑long programme celebrating 100 years of the dispensing optician profession.
The visit recognises the vital role dispensing opticians play in delivering high‑quality primary eye care and supporting patients and communities across the UK. ABDO’s centenary programme is shining a spotlight on the profession’s contribution to community practice, education and clinical care, while celebrating its past and inspiring its future.
During the visit, representatives from ABDO, Alistair Bridge, Chief Executive and Kevin Gutsell, immediate past President ABDO spent time with the team at Specsavers Streatham, meeting dispensing opticians and colleagues to learn more about the care being delivered to patients and the role the practice plays within the local community.
Alistair Bridge, Chief Executive said: ‘Our centenary year is about celebrating dispensing opticians and the essential role they play in primary eye care. Visiting practices like Specsavers Streatham brings that to life.
‘Dispensing opticians are at the heart of community eye care, combining clinical expertise with a strong focus on patient needs. It’s a pleasure to recognise the professionalism and dedication shown by teams like this as part of our 100‑year celebrations.’
Shivani Patel, retail director at Specsavers Streatham said: ‘We were delighted to welcome the Chief Executive and immediate past President of the ABDO to our practice. It means a great deal to have the role of dispensing opticians recognised, particularly during this milestone anniversary year for the profession.
‘Our team is proud of the care we provide to our patients and of the relationships we build within the local community every day.’
Sachin Patel, optometrist director added: ‘Dispensing opticians play a fundamental role in delivering excellent patient care and positive clinical outcomes. Celebrating 100 years of the profession is an opportunity to recognise the expertise, commitment and impact we can have across the community. Here at Specsavers Streatham, we’re delighted to be celebrating this centenary.’
ABDO’s centenary celebrations will continue throughout the year with practice visits, events and activities designed to honour the profession’s history, celebrate its present and inspire the next generation of dispensing opticians.
For customers visiting Specsavers Streatham, there are four test rooms, dedicated diagnostic testing areas and specific contact lens stations offering enhanced facilities. The store operates 28 sight clinics a week, with audiology clinics available on Sunday. Store opening times are Monday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm.
For those that can’t leave their homes unaccompanied due to disability or illness, Specsavers also offers a Home Visits service covering more than 90% of the UK – with more details available at www.specsavers.co.uk/home-eye-tests.
To book in for a sight or hearing test, you can contact Specsavers Streatham on 020 8677 5966. Alternatively, you can book online at https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/streatham
Issued by Tigerbond Group Ltd on behalf of Specsavers.
For more information or to speak to a Specsavers expert please contact:
Philippa Bassett
Tigerbond Group Ltd
Specsavers Client Manager
07704 536 170
