Topcon is holding a series of free clinical meetings throughout the country in October and November 2011. The meetings will feature speakers from the national stage and local representation from optometry and ophthalmology. The meetings will be formed of two parts - the first covering a discussion forum and user group meeting and the second half featuring the main lecture and two workshops. The dates are: October 11 in Cardiff, October 12 in Leeds, October 17 in Birmingham, October 18 in Manchester, October 31 in London, and November 2 in Glasgow.
Acuity Scotland is holding the You Will Never Test Alone training course on Sunday 28 August at the Lott Clinic in Edinburgh. The peer-led course will feature informal workshops and discussions focusing on anterior assessments, vitreous and central retinal assessments, peripheral assessment and red eye conditions. The course carries five CET points and the full-day course costs £95. Acuity associate members receive a 50 per cent discount, while full levy paying members can attend for free.
The General Optical Council has published guidance for students and potential students with disabilities who wish to become optical professionals. The GOC has provided information on what students can expect during the application process, studies and the role of the GOC. Head of education and standards Linda Kennaugh stated: 'We know from our recent equality and diversity survey that many of our registrants have disabilities and it should not deter anyone who wishes to become an optometrist or dispensing optician.'
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has benefited from a nationwide eye care initiative by Specsavers stores, which will contribute to the company's £250,000 fundraising pledge. To highlight International Assistance Dogs week (August 7-13), Specsavers has donated £1 from every eye examination during that period. Stores will also make one-off donations and carry out fundraising though different in-store initiatives. Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of Specsavers, said: 'Guide Dogs is a wonderful charity that not only provide guide dogs to help the blind and partially sighted but also educates people on the importance of eyecare, an issue that clearly close to out hearts.'