With Optometry Scotland elections approaching, we’re speaking to some of our current Independent Representatives about why they chose to get involved, what they have gained from the role and what they would say to others considering standing.
Our representatives play an important role in ensuring members’ views are heard and helping to shape the future direction of optometry in Scotland. But what is it actually like to be an OS Representative?
We asked current representatives:
- Why did you decide to stand for election?
- What has been the most rewarding part of being an Optometry Scotland representative?
- How do you balance the role alongside your day-to-day work?
- What would you say to a member who is considering standing for election?
Here’s what they had to say.
Jonathan Jennett, South and East Representative
Why did you decide to stand for election?
“I wanted to be a voice for independent optometry and make sure our views are heard. It’s a changing landscape and independent practices are becoming less common.
“I very much believe in what optometrists do and the value we bring to society. Scotland has a world-leading community eyecare service, and the opportunity to be part of a representative team helping to support and develop our profession really appealed to me.”
What has been the most rewarding part of being an Optometry Scotland representative?
“I’ve enjoyed being part of an organisation that is helping to drive the profession forward in Scotland. Optometrists have so much to offer and are well placed to respond to new demands on healthcare, ultimately for the benefit of patients across Scotland.
“It’s been rewarding to contribute to discussions about how we can continue to advance our profession and build on what is already a world-leading primary care service.”
How do you balance the role alongside your day-to-day work?
“A lot of OS meetings take place outside working hours and there aren’t too many meetings throughout the year, so I can usually dial in after work without it taking too much time away from day-to-day practice.”
What would you say to a member who is considering standing for election?
“Independent optometry needs a strong voice in an ever-changing landscape. We need people who understand the work that goes into running practices, the challenges we face and the importance of ensuring these are considered in discussions and decision-making with Scottish Government.
“If you feel strongly about your practice, independent optometry and the future of the profession, put yourself forward!”
Ian Rough, North Representative
Why did you decide to stand for election?
“I was initially encouraged to stand by Iain Jarvis. I’ve always been very proud of everything optometry in Scotland has achieved and felt that, if I could contribute, I should.
“I had already been involved in a number of working groups and educational committees, so I knew the calibre of people involved with Optometry Scotland and was keen to play my part.”
What has been the most rewarding part of being an Optometry Scotland representative?
“One of the most rewarding things has been seeing the enhanced services contract finally move forward after a long period of development. It was good to see that work progress and to have been part of the discussions around it.”
How do you balance the role alongside your day-to-day work?
“Running an independent practice is busy, so I tend to fit OS work around my working day, whether that’s during a lunch break or after work. It does require some commitment, but being able to contribute to the profession makes that worthwhile.”
What would you say to a member who is considering standing for election?
“If you’re passionate about your job and your profession, why not get involved and have your say on the issues and new developments affecting optometry in Scotland?
“The OS Board is a great group of people who work together for the wider good of the profession, and I’ve always found the meetings very open and welcoming.”
Johnathan Waugh, West Representative
Why did you decide to stand for election?
“Being part of OS discussions gives me insight into where my profession is heading and a chance to help shape the future of how I work and look after patients. It gives me an opportunity to positively influence the development of my career and patient care across Scotland.”
What has been the most rewarding part of being an Optometry Scotland representative?
“Seeing optometry continue to grow and develop, improving access to and the quality of eye care in Scotland.”
How do you balance the role alongside your day-to-day work?
“It’s not always easy and sometimes you have to take a back seat, but I know the work OS does positively impacts my day job and the value of the service and care I can offer my patients.”
What would you say to a member who is considering standing for election?
“As with other stakeholder roles across the profession, so much work goes on behind the scenes and you often only see that when you become involved.
“If you want to make a difference to the work you do and to the profession as a whole, step forward and get involved.”
Could you be an OS Representative?
A huge thank you to our Independent Representatives for the time, experience and insight they bring to Optometry Scotland.
This September, Ian Rough, our North Representative, and Jonathan Jennett, our South and East Representative, will step down at the end of their current terms, creating opportunities for new representatives to get involved.
If you are passionate about optometry in Scotland, want to represent the views of independent practices and would like to play a part in shaping the future of the profession, we would love to hear from you.
To find out more about standing for election as an Optometry Scotland Representative, contact the OS office at office@optometryscotland.org.uk