We believe optometrists should be at the heart of patient-centred eye care in the UK, making full use of their skills, being given opportunities to develop new skills, and playing a central role in leading and delivering new models of care to improve patient outcomes. 

A workforce vision: Background

Our vision sets out how we will ensure that optometrists remain at the forefront of eye care provision.

A workforce vision: One year on

We launched our workforce vision for the UK in August 2022, here’s what we have achieved since.

A workforce vision: Two years on

Our workforce vision sets out to keep optometrists at the forefront of eye care provision, and continue to be valued and recognised as key healthcare professionals.

In the news

College response to the NHS England Medium Term Planning Framework

We are concerned that primary eye care has been omitted as a priority opportunity in the framework.

The College of Optometrists champions eye health at party conferences

The College of Optometrists used this year’s major political party conferences to promote key messages about optometry and eye health to MPs and ministers, aligning discussions with the NHS 10-year health plan.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh awarded Honorary Fellowship of the College

The College of Optometrists has presented Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh with an Honorary Fellowship of the College in recognition of Her Royal Highness’s outstanding contribution to eye health.

Eyes on Diploma 2025 - Share your story

With the Diploma Ceremony taking place on 18 November 2025, we’re celebrating this special milestone with stories of your special day.