Retail reopening plans ‘not relevant to optical practices’

Plans to open retail premises in June are ‘not relevant to optical practices,’ according to Debbie McGill, head of policy and public affairs at the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO).

A statement has been issued by ABDO in response to the Prime Minister’s statement on May 25, which said that all non-essential shops can reopen from June 15 as part of plans to ease lockdown.

McGill said: ‘This is not relevant to optical practices as they are named as essential services within the definition of health and social care. Optical practices continue to provide only essential, urgent and emergency eye care at this stage. We will advise of any updates as soon as the position changes.’