New LOCSU Optical Lead Team
27 September 2021
Following a successful recent recruitment process we are pleased to welcome four new Optical Leads to the LOCSU team. They come from a range of backgrounds and bring a variety of experiences to the role.
Our new Optical Leads join our existing team of Max Halford, Richard Rawlinson & Nizz Sabir. Amar Shah also remains within the team working on specific projects and currently supporting LOCs across the EeRS project.
Some of our new team have already appeared in social media videos supporting the recent National Eye Health Week campaign.
LOCSU CEO Richard Whittington said:
“I am really pleased to welcome Fionnuala, Julia, Bobby and Alvaro to the team. They bring a range of experiences, skills and new ideas to the Optical Lead role and I know they will be working hard to support LOCs as we navigate service recovery and transformation whilst engaging with NHS reform.
“I’d like to thank our outgoing OL’s Helen Haslett & Tom Mackley for the job they have done.”
Meet the new OL’s:
Sarvat (Bobby) Fida
Bobby is a Resident Optometrist at Asda Opticians with experience of working as a Clinical Lead for Optical Compliance at Asda’s Head Office. In the past she has also worked part-time as a Locum Optometrist in the independent sector and for HMP. Bobby is a Hearings Panel Member for the General Optical Council’s Fitness to Practise Committee and a Committee member for Wakefield Local Optical Committee.
Alvaro Borges
Alvaro is an Optometrist based in the South-West. He has international work and academic experience and is fluent in several languages. In his career, he has undertaken a variety of roles within Optometry having worked in domiciliary, independent and multiple practices including directorship and company management. He’s currently LOC Chair for Gloucestershire and has a strong resolve in reducing health inequalities in eye care.
Julia Maiden
Is an Optometrist based in Greater Manchester currently working for ASDA Opticians with previous experience of working in the independent sector. She completed the Leadership Skills course for Optical Professionals in 2018 and since then has developed her leadership skills through the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care primary care provider board structure. She has been the Chair of Ashton Leigh and Wigan LOC since 2014.
Fionnuala Kidd
Fionnuala a community-based optometrist currently working for a multiple. She’s previously worked in a variety of independents and multiples across the North of England. As a pre reg supervisor Fionnuala has a keen interest in training and development. She’s currently a member of Cheshire LOC and says she’s an ardent supporter of all aspects of shared care.