Dr Gillian Rudduck MCOptom seeks equitable healthcare for all.
I had the privilege of representing The College of Optometrists at the Royal Garden Party earlier this year. It was with a great sense of pride that I introduced myself as College President, but it was also humbling to hear the reasons other guests had been invited.
The range of achievements and charitable acts was fascinating and confirmed my faith in human nature. It was inspiring to meet people who want to help their neighbours through what may seem like a small insignificant act but one that can have a life-changing impact.
One example was the man who had set up a youth centre in a socially deprived area with a high level of school drop-out and unemployment. By supporting and mentoring young people to achieve qualifications and employment, he had helped change their futures.
As I welcome new registrants to the College and celebrate the achievements of the profession at the diploma ceremony, I am always thrilled by the diversity of the members of my profession. Each individual brings something unique – their own lived experience – to their role and it is by acknowledging our differences, similarities and common purpose that we strengthen the profession as a whole.
Unfortunately the strength and positivity of diversity are not always acknowledged. Black History Month (October) serves as a platform to address systemic inequalities and discrimination within healthcare. Recent surveys have demonstrated that a large proportion of the profession experience discrimination, particularly racial discrimination. And racial inequality is experienced by patients too. Research from the General Optical Council shows that survey participants from ethnic minorities were less satisfied with the care they received than white participants.
Breaking down barriers for patients is fundamental to ensuring equitable healthcare for all. College guidance on equality and diversity (COptom, 2025) emphasises the importance of treating people fairly. Similarly to the celebration of individual altruistic actions at the Royal Garden Party, Black History Month can be the catalyst to help us focus on improving our understanding and respect for black heritage and culture.
Gillian has over 20 years' experience in a wide range of optometry roles, including primary and secondary care and academia, and currently practises as a consultant optometrist and a clinical lead at Wirral University Teaching Hospitals.
Image credit | CAROLINE ANDRIEU
Gillian has over 20 years' experience in a wide range of optometry roles, including primary and secondary care and academia, and currently practises as a consultant optometrist and a clinical lead at Wirral University Teaching Hospitals.
Since graduating with a BSc (Hons) Ophthalmic Optics, Gillian has achieved an MSc in Management Practice and a Doctorate in Philosophy. She holds the College's Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma and a qualification in Independent Prescribing.
Gillian has worked with NICE as a guidance committee member and is a CQC specialist advisor. Her work at the College has involved the development of higher qualifications and competency frameworks.
Gillian has over 20 years' experience in a wide range of optometry roles, including primary and secondary care and academia, and currently practises as a consultant optometrist and a clinical lead at Wirral University Teaching Hospitals.
Since graduating with a BSc (Hons) Ophthalmic Optics, Gillian has achieved an MSc in Management Practice and a Doctorate in Philosophy. She holds the College's Professional Higher Certificate in Glaucoma and a qualification in Independent Prescribing.
Gillian has worked with NICE as a guidance committee member and is a CQC specialist advisor. Her work at the College has involved the development of higher qualifications and competency frameworks.