What to expect in 2014

To mark the New Year, Optician asked some key decision-makers what they expect for the year ahead. Regulatory changes, advances in technology and a precarious financial forecast top the bill, while the profession as a whole looks forward to Optrafair London in April

? General Optical Council chief executive and registrar Samantha Peters

‘Over the next few years we are looking to focus on proactively promoting high standards across the profession in order to promote and protect the public’s health and safety. In 2014 we will start this work by reviewing the standards we set to encourage best practice, raising public awareness so people can make informed choices about optical care, and speeding up our handling of complaints, which will benefit the public and registrants alike. These priorities are currently the subject of our strategic plan consultation, which is open until 10 January. We would welcome as many views as possible.’