Optical profession condemns disorder

Optical professional bodies and service providers have expressed their shock and sadness regarding the recent violence and civil disorder in towns and cities in the UK.

The GOC acknowledged how registrants, staff, and the public it protected could be impacted by these events and extended its sympathies to those directly affected.

‘The GOC are committed to our shared values, including respecting other people and ideas, and will not tolerate racism, prejudice and Islamophobia. We believe everyone deserves to go about their daily lives in peace, without fear of violence, aggression, or discrimination,’ it stated.

The Association of Optometrists (AOP) condemned the ‘abhorrent behaviour, acts of violence and intimidation tactics’ and said it created specific guidance to ensure safety was the top priority.