The eye and hearing health of homeless people is highlighted in a ministerial roundtable

Eye health of people experiencing homelessness spotlighted in ministerial roundtable

The eye and hearing health of people experiencing homelessness has been highlighted in a ministerial roundtable discussion hosted by Alison McGovern, Minister for Homelessness.

The meeting brought together leading homelessness charities, local authorities, the London mayor’s office and Specsavers as part of the consultation process ahead of the government’s homelessness strategy publication. Specsavers was there because of its programme to improve access to eye and hearing care for people affected by homelessness.

Joni Nettleship, a member of the Specsavers homelessness programme team, says: ‘It was a privilege to join other organisations leading work to change the lives of people affected by homelessness.

‘It was also an opportunity to set out the changes that we believe will improve access to care for this group of people when it comes to their eye and hearing health.’

These changes include changes to NHS regulations to ensure those attending a day centre or staying in a shelter or hostel can access NHS eye health services without the need for a pre-visit notification.

In addition, Specsavers says that eligibility for free replacement NHS glasses if their current pair is broken, lost or stolen due to homelessness would be another important step.

Ms Nettleship adds: ‘I also want to pay tribute to Specsavers teams across the country who are running vital clinics for people affected by homelessness. Our attendance at this meeting in Westminster is a testament to the change they are making to people’s lives nationwide. Thank you.’