This week is National Eye Health Week. 

This year’s National Eye Health Week takes place from 23-29 September 2024, promoting the importance of good eye health and the need for regular eye tests for all.

Two million people in the UK are living with sight loss that is sever enough to have a significant on their daily lives.

Eye tests play a huge part in making sure your eyes stay healthy. The NHS recommends you should have your eyes tested every two years (more often if advised by your ophthalmic practitioner or optometrist).

A detailed explanation of NHS eye tests is available on the NHS website.

To find out more about National Eye Health Week and how you can get involved, please visit the Vision Matters website here: Vision Matters – National Eye Health Week

Healthwatch in Sussex – Your Experience of Eye Tests.

In July 2024, the three Healthwatch teams in Sussex sought your experiences of of having your eyes tested.

359 people from across Sussex shared their views with us. We heard:

• 70.6% of responses are eligible for a free eye test as they are over 60. And 97.5% of responses have an eye test in the last 2 years.

• Not having any eye test has had some negative impact on ability to work or to carry out daily household tasks and some significant negative impact on ability to do the
things enjoyed or relationships with others.

You can read the full short report here.

Share your experience with Healthwatch East Sussex:

If you would like help to navigate health and care services, or you wish to share your experiences of health or social care with Healthwatch, you can contact their Information and Signposting service on:

Telephone:  0333 101 4007

Email:  enquiries@healthwatcheastsussex.co.uk

Or leave a review on their Feedback Centre.