A Shared Vision: World Optometry Week 2026

23 March 2026

This World Optometry Day (Monday 23 March) and World Optometry Week (22-28 March), LOCSU is celebrating LOCs and optometrists for the role they play in providing high-quality eye-care in the community.

Taking on the theme: ‘A Shared Vision: Collaboration in Global Optometry’, World Optometry Week this year plans to emphasise the importance of teamwork in providing accessible and sustainable eye care globally.

The week highlights the critical role of optometrists in healthcare, encouraging regular sight tests and promoting initiatives focused on improving access to vision services, particularly in regions with limited care.

Zoe Richmond, Clinical Director at LOCSU, issued a call for increased collaboration in eye-care, thanking optometrists across the country for the crucial job they play in maintaining vision, preventing sight loss, and reducing pressure on hospital eye-services.

She said: “Collaboration and closer working between optometry and ophthalmology becomes increasingly important as demand for eye care grows.

“Optometrists play a vital role providing high-quality eye care in the community, ensuring access to essential eye care for all people and helping to reduce pressure on hospital eye services across the country.

“This World Optometry Week, we want to thank you for everything you do for patients across the country.”

Janice Foster, LOCSU CEO, echoed the appreciation of optometrists, LOCs, and all within primary eye-care for their incredible work, inviting people to get involved and continue to make a difference.

“This World Optometry Day, I want to highlight the importance and incredible work of optometrists, primary eye care and LOCs across England.” She said.

“While facing changes within the NHS, optometrists and LOCs are working hard to provide care closer to home, tackle health inequalities and reduce pressure in hospitals.

“LOCs are there to help make a difference – get in touch to see how you can get involved.”