Workforce Development
The Confederation coordinates a regional Workforce Development Project founded in 2021 with funding provided by the NHS. Its aims are to enhance and develop an integrated local optometric workforce to meet the needs of both primary and secondary care to the benefit of patients and the eyecare system overall.
To meet its aims, it is:
- Optimising core competencies through locally convened workshops, co-learning events and secondary care placements with locally acknowledged accreditations.
- Developing extended competencies and increase the skill mix of the primary care workforce by providing training and grants towards approved higher qualifications.
Progress to-date:
Hundreds of performers have attended core competency development courses and over one hundred grant awards have been made.
Grants are now Available for 2026/27:
Funding for regional Workforce Development has been provided by the NHS for 2026/27 and the criteria and eligibility for grants to performers to complete higher qualifications to help meet the needs of local NHS services have been agreed.
Applications are now invited for the following grants:
£800 towards course fees for the Professional Certificate in Glaucoma (Prof Cert Glauc)
£1500 towards course and placement fees for Independent Prescribing (IP) – (Grants are not available solely for placements).
The criteria for grant awards include:
The geographical location of the practice meeting the needs of the local population.
Priority given to those offering the most hours of NHS primary care services to benefit the community.
A balanced distribution of a higher qualifications across the region.
A supporting statement describing how the qualification will enhance your role in a commissioned community pathway, benefit the local community and contribute to the development of a local professional workforce.
To Apply:
- Read the “How to Apply” guidance
- Complete the application form on the portal
Grant offers 2026 How to Apply
