A WHITCHURCH opticians has urged residents not to neglect eyecare despite fears over lack of money due to the post-Christmas period and increasing living costs.

The staff, at Scrivens Opticians & Hearing on Green End, are forgoing eye tests which reveal more than deteriorating vision.

Research by Scrivens found almost half of those who went for an eye test during the pandemic, found their prescription had changed for the worst.

Branch manager Marcia Flory said: “We know that people are struggling to budget with rising food and energy prices putting a strain on finances.

“There is also a perception that it doesn’t matter if we delay an eye test by deeming it an unessential cost.

“This couldn’t be further from the truth.

“Our eyes are the window to our general health and regular eye tests are essential to our wellbeing.

“Also, getting an eye test and purchasing prescription glasses doesn’t have to cost the earth and in certain circumstances the costs can even be met fully or partly by the NHS.”

Marcia added: “We are here to help and guide our customers, so if in doubt we encourage anyone to ask.

“Even if you are not entitled to NHS eye care, we have a fantastic range of frames that won’t leave you out of pocket and if you switch to contact lenses you can spread the cost with our Lensplan Scheme.”