Wellingborough independent opticians remains open despite new lockdown restrictions

An independent opticians in Wellingborough is reminding patients of the importance of eyecare as well as reassuring them that they remain open despite the new lockdown restrictions.

Halsey Opticians in Sheep Street, Wellingborough, is still operating as it was before the new national restrictions were introduced, offering eye examinations to patients who need access to eyecare.

Customers are still able to purchase glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses in practice, as well as see their optometrist in a safe and sanitised environment.

The practice has introduced several measures, with all team members equipped with full PPE and strict social distancing procedures are in place.

Every touchpoint and all frames are also sanitised regularly after each use.

Appointments have also been lengthened at Halsey, to allow the consulting rooms to be thoroughly cleaned after each patient’s visit.

The practice has emphasised that visits are by appointment only, and all patients must wear a suitable face covering at all times.

Regarding the continuation of essential healthcare, during his address to the nation Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “It is really important, unless your clinicians tell you otherwise, that you should continue to use the NHS, get your scans, turn up for your appointments and pick up your treatments.

"If at all possible, we want you to continue to access these services, now and through the winter. Indeed it’s only by taking this action that we can protect the NHS for you.”

Practice partner and dispensing optician Michaela Mayes said: “The safety of our patients and our team is an absolute priority to us.

"I am incredibly proud of how our practice team have continued to adapt to the new ways of working and it’s very important to reassure the local community that we are open for all of your eyecare and hearing care needs during this new lockdown.

"Opticians are seen as a key part of NHS primary care and we will continue to provide eyecare in the community, in a safe environment to ensure that we take care of our patients and do whatever we can to support our hospitals in looking after the nation’s health.

“We want to reassure patients about the additional safety measures and processes we have put in place that go above and beyond government guidelines to ensure a Covid-secure environment.

"You will still be able to try on spectacle frames to ensure you get the perfect pair, and you will still get a full eye examination to ensure your eyes are healthy and working to their full potential.

“If you are shielding at home, get in touch with us as we are more than happy to organise a solution which means you can still receive eyecare and anything else you need to keep your eyes healthy.

“It’s been great to see everyone back in practice over the past few months and we’re delighted we can continue to bring our essential service to our patients, with safety as our priority. We remain committed to enabling our teams to work safely whilst we continue to serve the community.

"We are extremely grateful for everyone’s understanding as we have all got to grips with the new normal.”

Staff at Halsey have been working since original restrictions were introduced in March to support the community, including delivering glasses to the door of vulnerable and self-isolating patients.

For more details call the team on 01933 224488 or go to www.halsey-opticians.co.uk/ to read more about their safety processes.

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