Newsome’s Notes

Daryl on the panel at the recent AIO Conference

I am writing this month’s missive whilst sitting on a train, having just left my second optical conference in two weeks.

First, I attended the Association for Independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians’ annual conference in Kenilworth: a thoroughly enjoyable weekend and much, much more than I had expected. Then on 11 and 12 October, I attended the National Optical Conference (NOC) in Leeds, another well presented, enjoyable and informative event.

As I journey on, I contemplate what I enjoyed so much about both conferences: what learning and other benefits I gained. Without doubt, the workshops and discussion groups have given me a better understanding of how the industry is flexing and changing – and there is much to discuss and learn.

The sponsors, without whom none of these things could happen, all brought their latest products, services and training. The speakers brought new ideas, fresh solutions to old problems, and revealed further issues requiring solutions. I enjoyed talking to opticians about the challenges, and strategies to address these challenges, including how local optical committees can help.

The NOC lectures on equality, diversity and inclusion, and workforce development, were second to none. It was a privilege to hear from the first national clinical director for eyecare, Louise Wickham, and from Catherine Thompson of West Yorkshire integrated care board, who spoke about the national eyecare transformation process and where we may be in the coming years.

Every bit of it was fascinating, entertaining and worthwhile – but what did I enjoy the most? The people of course: the wonderful people involved in optics – all wanting to do their best for their patients, looking to improve their own skills, and those of their colleagues, and raise their professions another step higher.

It is the people who make working in our professions and industry the fulfilling experience that it is. So, please do come and chat with me at 100% Optical in February.