The College of Optometrists

I haven't yet paid my college fees (received bill about a month ago) this year. I think £250+ is too extortionate & am wondering what the likely consequences might be if I don't pay this year. Does anyone have any ideas?

There's an earlier thread from Tim explaining the benefits. At best you'll be £250 better off which after tax allowance is £150. 1 pair of bifocals? Hmmm.

I notice quite a few abandoning the college - if you judge by the optoms on the GOC register without FCoptom/MCoptom. I think it is a must - we must have a voice. The resources make it a bargain. As you say, Patrick - a little pair of bifocals - and tis yours!

The college of Optometrists is our college (OO & DO)!!!,so if we are not a member who will ??? pay your bill.

it's Important to show union and a minimum standard in our profession. Being a member is one way.

You may think is waste money but the opposite is true.

Cheers

I still haven't paid & don't think I intend to. The college does very little for its members. E.g. I phoned them a few weeks ago, re the CET grant. They claimed to know nothing about it (but then neither did the AOP or GOC for that matter). As for showing union as a profession, you are much mistaken if you think being a member does that. We are too soft as a profession, & more people should make a stand about paying such extortionate fees (which I have paid for the last fouteen years). Organisations like the College of Optometrists like to make us think we are part of something elite, but what do we really get for the £250+ ?