The Optometric Fees Negotiating Committee (OFNC) is calling on all contractors in England to take part in a new confidential survey (by the 22nd<\/sup> June 2026<\/strong>) designed to capture the scale of unfunded workload associated with GOS delivery, as well as wider cost pressures facing practices.<\/p>\n The survey aims to gather robust, system\u2011wide evidence that will be used in discussions with ministers and senior officials during this year\u2019s fees round. OFNC has emphasised that strong participation is essential to ensure the sector\u2019s voice is accurately represented ahead of the summer parliamentary break.<\/p>\n All responses will be analysed only in aggregate, with no identifiable information shared.<\/p>\n Why This Matters<\/strong><\/p>\n Contractors across England have highlighted the growing burden of unfunded activity\u2014administrative tasks, follow\u2011up 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\u2011based picture to government.<\/p>\n A high response rate will significantly strengthen the sector\u2019s negotiating position.<\/p>\n Take Part in the Survey<\/strong><\/p>\n Survey link: OFNC Survey<\/a> (by the 22nd<\/sup> June 2026<\/strong>)<\/p>\n More Information<\/strong><\/p>\n Further details are available in the OFNC press release: Find out more<\/a><\/p>\n A final reminder that practices wishing to take part in the new Smoking Cessation Local Incentive Scheme must submit their sign\u2011up form by Friday 19 June.<\/p>\n This 12\u2011month 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.<\/p>\n Participating practices will receive support, resources and funded VBA training sessions for their teams.<\/p>\n Key Links<\/strong><\/p>\n For any questions, contact: hiowicb-hsi.pod@nhs.net<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n Cataract surgery remains the only effective treatment, with more than half a million procedures carried out each year in the UK.<\/p>\n Zoe Richmond, Clinical Director at LOCSU, emphasises the vital role of primary care optometry:<\/p>\n \u201cCataract 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\u2019s no need to wait for a cataract to \u2018ripen\u2019 but surgery is usually only beneficial when the cataract is impacting sight.<\/p>\n 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.\u201d<\/p>\n Throughout June, practices may wish to share information with patients, highlight the signs and symptoms of cataract, and encourage regular sight tests\u2014particularly for those who have noticed changes in their vision.<\/p>\n Hosted by Sapphire Eye Care | Limited Places<\/span><\/p>\n Members are invited to a special CPD event set in the stunning grounds of Winchester Cathedral, offering an evening of consultant\u2011led education, a relaxed summer BBQ, and valuable networking opportunities.<\/span><\/p>\n Date:<\/strong> Thursday 9 July 2026 Featured Speakers & Topics<\/p>\n Alongside the CPD programme, attendees will enjoy a s<\/strong>ummer BBQ and drinks reception, with time to connect with colleagues in a unique and historic setting.<\/p>\n Places are limited and early interest is already high.<\/p>\n To register, please email your: Name | GOC Number | Practice<\/strong> to:\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0events@sapphire-eyecare.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues who may be interested<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" 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 22nd June 2026) designed to capture the scale of unfunded workload associated with GOS delivery, as well as wider cost … <\/p>\nFinal Reminder: Sign Up to the Smoking Cessation Local Incentive Scheme by 19 June<\/h2>\n
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Cataract Awareness Month \u2013 June 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Exclusive CPD Evening at Winchester Cathedral – 9th July 2026<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nVenue:<\/strong> The Pavilion, Winchester Cathedral
\nFrom 6:00pm:<\/strong> Registration, BBQ & Networking
\n6:45pm:<\/strong> Consultant\u2011Led CPD Sessions<\/p>\n\n