NHS calls for optical workforce volunteers

NHS England has outlined how clinical and non-clinical optical workforce can support the delivery of the NHS’ plan for Covid-19 through volunteering.

In a document published online, NHS England said that any contribution would be outside of the individual’s scope as an optometrist or dispensing optician, unless it is in the provision of eye care.

NHS England added that some of the optical workforce will still be required to maintain urgent and essential eye care and it is crucial that this is maintained to reduce pressures on GPs and emergency hospital departments.

For non-clinical members of the optical team, NHS England said there are local community volunteering efforts that require support to help vulnerable members of society.