OutsideClinic has partnered with Swindon-based charity

OutsideClinic has partnered with Swindon-based charity

To provide eye health checks for the homeless community.

To celebrate  National Eye Health Week, OutsideClinic has partnered with Alternative Angels, a Swindon-based charity dedicated to supporting homeless and vulnerable members of the community.

On Monday, 16th September, OutsideClinic joined Alternative Angels at the Pilgrim Centre in Swindon, where the charity serves meals to the homeless. OutsideClinic Optician, Matt Burford, provided several eye health checks for those in need.

“Access to quality healthcare is a basic right, not a privilege,” said Matt. “Eye health is often overlooked, especially in vulnerable communities, and we hope to make a meaningful difference by providing these essential services.”

Burford continued, “It was incredibly rewarding to offer health assessments to individuals who might not otherwise have access to this kind of care. These checks could identify potential health concerns, and even if we were able to help just one person today, we created a positive change and made a tangible difference in their life.”

OutsideClinic, whose headquarters are based in Swindon, were able to provide an examination of overall eye health checking for broader health issues such as diabetes and hypertension—conditions that can often be detected during an eye examination. Individuals were then signposted to appropriate services or healthcare professionals for further support.

Personal Stories:
Linda, who was worried about her eye health, was reassured during her screening and learned that, as someone over 60, she is eligible for a free NHS eye test. Another individual, Joao, was delighted when OutsideClinic was able to tighten his glasses, which had been slipping down his nose. During his screening, early signs of cataracts were also identified.

“It was a wonderful evening providing this service to those in need. Everyone was so lovely and had a different story to tell. The work that Alternative Angels do is truly remarkable, and we were glad to be a small part of it,” said Burford.

Founded in 2016 by three friends who understood the effects of housing instability, Alternative Angels is dedicated to supporting approximately 100 people every Monday and Tuesday, providing home-cooked meals, snacks, and sandwiches, but most importantly, offering a compassionate ear for those in need.

National Eye Health Week on this week serves as an important reminder of the need for regular eye examinations and preventative care to maintain good vision. For vulnerable communities, such as the homeless, access to these assessments can be life-changing, helping to identify potential health problems and prevent avoidable sight loss.