Anti-discrimination drive launched by AOP

New guidelines recently released by the Association of Optometrists (AOP) aimed at tackling racism and discrimination within the profession have been bolstered by the creation of a dedicated Anti-Racism and Equality Team (ARET).

The team’s inception was inspired by AOP member Hamza Mussa’s work examining the prevalence of racism within the profession, alongside Naveed Butt and his colleagues. It comprises optometrists able to empathise with facing discrimination and has been created to provide support and advice to optometrists.

Kathy Jones, policy advisor at the AOP, explained: ‘We believe it is very important for members to speak to others who understand the issues they are experiencing and can offer practical advice on what to do. As we know from our Peer Support Line, members appreciate the opportunity to talk with people who have experience of the work and the work circumstances of an optical practice.’