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Harrogate practice supports Eye Clinic Liaison Officer training

Harrogate practice supports Eye Clinic Liaison Officer training

SPECSAVERS Harrogate has sponsored training for a member of a local sight loss charity to become an Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO).

Helen McGrath has been supported by the practice to become an ECLO at Vision Support. The role helps bridge the gap between medical professionals and individuals experiencing sight loss with Harrogate being one of only two areas in the UK without access to an NHS funded ECLO.

Vision Support is close to Helen’s heart – after two strokes left her registered blind in 2014, she joined as a member in 2016. Motivated by the sense of community, she began volunteering as a Peer Support and Telephone Befriender. At the start of 2024, she was asked if she wanted to progress into the role of ECLO.

‘When I lost my sight, I was told I would never work again. Thanks to the team at Vision Support, and Specsavers Harrogate’s generous sponsorship, I’ve been able to prove them wrong,’ she says.

‘This role means a lot to me. It has provided me the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much.

‘I’m now in a position where I can provide essential support to others on their sight loss journey, helping feel less isolated and encouraging them to live their lives to the fullest.’

Andy Bryer, retail director at Specsavers Harrogate, says: ‘At Specsavers, we understand how important Vision Support’s work is for individuals with visual impairments in the surrounding area, helping them access resources they need to regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

‘It’s been a privilege to provide them with funding that enables connections between the community and dedicated professionals such as Helen, ensuring they receive the services they need to be independent.

‘It’s been wonderful to watch Helen progress in her role and make a meaningful difference to those living with sight loss.’

He adds: ‘We look forward to continuing our partnership with Vision Support as well as supporting the people around Harrogate with the essential visual support they deserve.’

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