Homelessness charity Crisis is urgently appealing for practitioners to volunteer their skills to help homeless people this Christmas.
Up to 1,500 homeless and vulnerably housed people will visit the 34th Crisis Open Christmas this year.
Some will be rough sleepers but the majority will be hidden homeless people who may stay in hostels, bed and breakfast accommodation or on friends' and families' floors.
Held at six venues across London, the Crisis Open Christmas provides access to a range of essential health, accommodation, work and learning support as well as companionship.
Optometry is an integral part of the medical services on offer and many guests will not have received eye care for some time. Opticians are needed to volunteer for a range of shifts from 23-30 December.
Last year 180 eye tests were given and 85 pairs of glasses were issued. Elaine Styles, optometry service organiser told Optician: 'It is fantastic to help people when they are at a low point in their lives. It’s also great to be there for someone and show them that you care.'
Call 020 7426 3874 for an application form, apply online at www.crisis.org.uk or email volunteering@crisis.org.uk. For further information call 020 7426 3875/2.