Scotland’s first eye clinic for homeless opens.
Scotland’s First Eye Care Clinic for Homeless People Opens in Edinburgh
A groundbreaking new free eye care clinic for individuals experiencing homelessness has officially opened its doors this week at the Crisis Skylight Centre in Edinburgh, marking a significant milestone as the first of its kind in Scotland outside of England.
Operated by the eye health charity Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP), the clinic is situated on the newly established Wellness Floor at the Skylight in Canongate. Funded by Specsavers, this innovative space not only houses the bespoke eye clinic but also includes additional rooms aimed at expanding the range of health services available to members at Crisis.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed a gathering of more than 60 attendees from Crisis, VCHP, and Specsavers, alongside notable third-sector professionals. Guests were given an exclusive tour of the state-of-the-art facilities while engaging with experts to gain insights into the invaluable support offered at the Centre.
Although the Edinburgh Crisis Skylight commenced operations last year, it was only through the financial backing provided by Specsavers that these additional health and wellness suites could be made available to the public.
Jenny Stephenson, the Scottish divisional chair of Specsavers, expressed her delight at the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to assist VCHP in launching its inaugural clinic in Scotland. Our core mission is to enhance eye care services for all individuals, but we recognise the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness in accessing essential eye health care. The establishment of the Wellness Floor symbolises a significant partnership between Crisis, VCHP, and Specsavers, with a shared vision of fostering equitable and accessible care for everyone, irrespective of their circumstances.”
Elaine Styles, the founder and chair of trustees at VCHP, conveyed her team’s excitement about the newly unveiled clinical facilities, which include a dedicated dispensing area. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Ms Styles shared: “This latest clinic marks a significant milestone in our journey, as it becomes our tenth installation across the country – all managed and staffed by dedicated volunteers who deliver professional ophthalmic services to homeless individuals. It stands as a testament to the impactful outcomes stemming from our enduring partnership with Crisis and Specsavers.”
Mark Kennedy, the director of Crisis Skylight in Edinburgh, emphasised the transformative impact the new clinic will have on their outreach efforts for individuals experiencing homelessness. Mr Kennedy expressed his gratitude towards Specsavers and VCHP for their unwavering support, highlighting the clinic’s pivotal role in enhancing eye health services and aiding individuals on their pathway out of homelessness.
Collaborating hand in hand, VCHP, Crisis, and Specsavers are actively engaging with key stakeholders and charities within the optical industry to advocate for policy reforms that will facilitate improved access to essential eye care services for those affected by homelessness.
