It is important that children have a full check prior to starting school - or earlier, of course, if there are grounds for concern. With modern techniques such examinations are perfectly effective even for children too young to read.

Myopia (short sightedness) often develops during adolescence, so regular visits to the optometrists are essential. We have specialist equipment for the investigation of eye problems associated with specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia.

Eye examinations are free of charge for children and those aged under 19 in full time education.

In monitoring of primary health care examinations for adults, too, are of great importance.

By the age of 45 most people will experience a hardening of the lens within the eye and therefore require some correction either for distance or close vision.

Those whose close relatives have a history of eye diseases, such as glaucoma, need more frequent examinations and may be exempt from charges.

The elderly patient requires more regular attention, and advise by his or her practitioner.
Examinations in many cases are required at annual or six monthly intervals


Eye Test Charges

A full eye examination costs £25.00 but is free under the NHS to the following: 

  • under 16; 

  • under 19 and in full time education;

  • over 60; 

  • on Income Support, income-based Job Seeker's Allowance, Disabled Person's Tax Credit or Working Families' Tax Credit (or whose partner is); 

  • hold, or have a partner who holds, an exemption certificate (HC2); 

  • registered blind or partially sighted; 

  • people who need complex lenses; 

  • people whose sight test is carried out through the Hospital Eye Department as part of the management of their eye condition; 

  • diagnosed diabetic or with glaucoma;

  • aged 40 or over and the brother, sister or child of a diagnosed glaucoma patient. If you fall into one of the above categories you are entitled to a free sight test every two years, unless your optician thinks you require one more frequently.