News post
OutsideClinic provides eye health checks for the homeless community
We’re proud to share our recent partnership with Alternative Angels, a Swindon-based charity dedicated to supporting homeless and vulnerable members of the community.
In the lead-up to National Eye Health Week, our team visited the Pilgrim Centre in Swindon on Monday, 16th September, where Alternative Angels serve meals to those in need. During this event, we provided free eye health checks to individuals who might not otherwise have access to such essential services.
Connecting with people
Matt Burford, our Professional Services Manager and Optometrist, performed several checks, identifying potential health concerns and ensuring individuals received the guidance they needed for further support.
“Eye care is often overlooked, especially among vulnerable communities. “These screenings can spot early signs of serious health conditions, like diabetes and hypertension, and can be a critical step in helping people take control of their health.”
Matt Burford, Optometrist
Several touching stories emerged from the evening, highlighting the importance of the eye health checks and the positive impact they had on individuals.
Linda arrived at the Pilgrim Centre feeling anxious about her eye health. After a thorough assessment, she was relieved to learn that she was eligible for a free NHS eye test due to her age. This information empowered her to take proactive steps for her eye care, helping her feel more confident about her health moving forward.
Joao was another participant who left with a smile. He had been struggling with glasses that constantly slipped down his nose, making it difficult for him to see clearly. Our team was able to adjust his glasses, providing him with immediate comfort. During his screening, we also identified early signs of cataracts. This timely detection means he can seek further care and avoid potential complications down the line.
Although OutsideClinic provides services across the UK, we are proud to have our head office based in Swindon, deeply rooted in our local community. Alongside our Swindon headquarters, we operate a dedicated lab in Glasgow, which helps us support our extensive network and deliver personalised care efficiently to those who need it most.
A rewarding experience
We are grateful to Alternative Angels for letting us join them in supporting the community. Reflecting on the event, Matt Burford said:
“It was incredibly rewarding to offer health assessments to individuals who might not otherwise have access to this kind of care. Even if we were able to help just one person today, we created a positive change in their life.”
Matt Burford, Optometrist
Supporting Alternative Angels
Founded in 2016, Alternative Angels is dedicated to supporting approximately 100 people every Monday and Tuesday, providing not only home-cooked meals, snacks, and sandwiches but also a compassionate ear for those in need.
Our collaboration with Alternative Angels aligns perfectly with our mission to provide accessible healthcare and reinforces our commitment to making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve. Initiatives like these are crucial reminders of the importance of regular eye examinations and preventative care, especially during National Eye Health Week.
For more information about Alternative Angels, click here.
