NHS eye screening for all special schools

NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care will offer free eye tests for all children and young people at special schools in England from April 2024.

The NHS in-school eye testing programme received positive feedback this June following a trial of the service at 83 special schools in England since April 2021.

Under the programme, some 3662 children had their eyes tested for the first time, with 53% saying they’d never had an eye test before. More than 300 referrals were made to other services, while 3057 children received glasses – 11% for the first time.

Following a review, NHS England has introduced nine new proposals, including ensuring eye care teams have the correct qualifications and are registered with a professional organisation.