GOC marks 50 years of professional progress

The GOC celebrates its 50th anniversary on July 7 which also marks 50 years to the day since the beginning of statutory regulation for optometrists and dispensing opticians, as created by the Opticians Act.

To mark its 50th anniversary, Council members past and present, along with optical bodies, charities and other partner organisations, gathered in London on Wednesday (July 2) to celebrate the Council's achievements.

GOC chairman Rosie Varley told guests: 'This is a milestone for both the GOC and the optical professions. Optical regulation has changed significantly over the past half-century, to keep pace with clinical developments in optometry and dispensing optics, and the settings in which eye care is provided. Both professions have come a long way since 1958, and continue to grow and adapt.'