In focus: Optical job market faces serious supply problems

An undersupply of optometrists in the UK in tandem with lower average salaries and an explosion of locum working has changed the face of the optical workplace.

These were among the conclusions of a long-awaited Optical Workforce Survey by the College of Optometrists, released today, which called current workforce patterns into question.

It estimated a net undersupply of full-time optometrists – despite the arrival of a controversial new optometry course at the University of Hertfordshire.

A petition opposing the courses attracted 2,697 signatures.

Overall, the College estimated this week that around 813 more optometrists were needed to serve the eye care needs of the nation, which support plans for another course approved at the University of Portsmouth.