qualificationS, PROFESsIONAL BODIES & EXPERIENCE

Qualified ORTHOPTIST IN CORNWALL

Caring for patients with eye conditions

I began working within the optical world at the age of 18, where I worked for a small family chain of Optical Practices over 8 years. I firstly worked as an Optical Advisor and later completed a Foundation Degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing.

I went on to undertake a degree in Orthoptics from the University of Liverpool where I graduated with a First Class BSc (Hons). I began working as an Orthoptist for the University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Trust in 2014, before moving to Warrington & Halton NHS Foundation Trust where I specialised in Visual Processing Difficulties (VPD). I became part of the Orthoptic SEN (Special Educational Needs) team, visiting specialist SEN schools to complete Orthoptic assessments in addition to leading the Reception Vision Screening programme.

Since moving to Cornwall in 2019 I worked for the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, where I became an Advanced Orthoptist and embarked on the role of leading the development of the Stroke-Orthoptic and SEN service until 2023. I loved my NHS role, but the small team of just five Orthoptists in Cornwall means that I’ve missed being able to offer the specialist VPD service.

I know from experience just how much this clinic can positively impact a child’s learning journey. Following VPD input and equipping them with the visual tools they need to access their curriculum more effortlessly, I have seen my patients gain a new-found confidence which in turn empowers them to move forwards and fulfill their true potential. This has driven my desire to offer the service privately, to ensure that the assessment and treatment of such difficulties can be accessed without travelling out of county.