Letters: January 18

It is encouraging to read Omen bringing uncorrected refractive error in the developing world to the attention of Optician readers, (January 4). In the article, Omen says: ‘In the UK Vision Aid Overseas has made a valuable contribution, but the scale of the challenge is an international one.’

Since its establishment in 1985, VAO has remained committed to dealing with uncorrected refractive error worldwide. VAO has worked in 23 countries across four continents. In each of these countries it has established an effective working relationship with an in-country partner, so that its activity is focused, well-resourced and productive. In recent years, it has concentrated its work on eight target countries with a significant under-serviced need. It works in collaboration with Sightsavers International in four of its target countries and with Orbis in Ethiopia.