Latest News from Hampshire LOC – 19 June 2026

19 June 2026

IMPORTANT! OFNC Survey: Contractors Urged to Share Evidence on Unfunded GOS Work

The Optometric Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) is calling on all contractors in England to take part in a new confidential survey (by the 22^nd June 2026) designed to capture the scale of unfunded workload associated with GOS delivery, as well as wider cost pressures facing practices.

The survey aims to gather robust, system‑wide evidence that will be used in discussions with ministers and senior officials during this year’s fees round. OFNC has emphasised that strong participation is essential to ensure the sector’s voice is accurately represented ahead of the summer parliamentary break.

All responses will be analysed only in aggregate, with no identifiable information shared.

Why This Matters

Contractors across England have highlighted the growing burden of unfunded activity—administrative tasks, follow‑up work, and clinical responsibilities that fall outside the scope of GOS fees. This survey provides the mechanism to quantify those pressures and present a clear, evidence‑based picture to government.

A high response rate will significantly strengthen the sector’s negotiating position.

Take Part in the Survey

Survey link: OFNC Survey (by the 22^nd June 2026)

More Information

Further details are available in the OFNC press release: Find out more

Final Reminder: Sign Up to the Smoking Cessation Local Incentive Scheme by 19 June

A final reminder that practices wishing to take part in the new Smoking Cessation Local Incentive Scheme must submit their sign‑up form by Friday 19 June.

This 12‑month scheme, funded by Hampshire County Council and supported by the HIOW ICB, aims to embed smoking cessation conversations, VBA training and direct referrals to Smokefree Hampshire within optical practice.

Participating practices will receive support, resources and funded VBA training sessions for their teams.

Key Links

• Sign‑up form: Sign Up Template.docx
• Scheme specification:HCC Smokefree Generation 2030 – Optical Project Proposal (Feb 2026) DRAFT.pdf]
• Promotional/educational pack: [Educational Resources]
• VBA training registration: – 22 June, 12–1pm – 29 June, 9–10am – 6 July, 6–7pm [Insert registration links]

For any questions, contact: hiowicb-hsi.pod@nhs.net

Cataract Awareness Month – June 2026

June marks Cataract Awareness Month, an opportunity for the eye care community to highlight one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide and to support patients in understanding the importance of early detection.

Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. Early cataracts often cause little or no noticeable change in vision, but over time they can lead to blurred sight and increasing difficulty with everyday tasks. According to Sight Research UK, 65% of people diagnosed with cataracts were unaware they had the condition, as symptoms can be subtle in the early stages.

Cataract surgery remains the only effective treatment, with more than half a million procedures carried out each year in the UK.

Zoe Richmond, Clinical Director at LOCSU, emphasises the vital role of primary care optometry:

“Cataract is a common condition and most cataract develop slowly. Primary care optometry teams are well placed to advise on managing symptoms relating to cataract and when surgical intervention may be warranted. There’s no need to wait for a cataract to ‘ripen’ but surgery is usually only beneficial when the cataract is impacting sight.

People who have noticed a reduction in their sight should book a sight test. Even when cataract is diagnosed, sight can often be improved through a change in spectacle prescription.”

Throughout June, practices may wish to share information with patients, highlight the signs and symptoms of cataract, and encourage regular sight tests—particularly for those who have noticed changes in their vision.

Exclusive CPD Evening at Winchester Cathedral – 9th July 2026

Hosted by Sapphire Eye Care | Limited Places

Members are invited to a special CPD event set in the stunning grounds of Winchester Cathedral, offering an evening of consultant‑led education, a relaxed summer BBQ, and valuable networking opportunities.

Date: Thursday 9 July 2026
Venue: The Pavilion, Winchester Cathedral
From 6:00pm: Registration, BBQ & Networking
6:45pm: Consultant‑Led CPD Sessions

Featured Speakers & Topics

• Professor Andy Luff – Beyond the Lens: Pre & Post‑Phaco Care and the Role of Optometrists
• Mr Simon Rogers – The Lid List: Know When to Observe, Treat or Refer (VRICS)
• Mr Nish Srikantha – From Bottlenecks to Backfills: Private Solutions for NHS Glaucoma Shortfalls

Alongside the CPD programme, attendees will enjoy a summer BBQ and drinks reception, with time to connect with colleagues in a unique and historic setting.

Places are limited and early interest is already high.

To register, please email your: Name | GOC Number | Practice to:   events@sapphire-eyecare.co.uk

Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues who may be interested