We’re launching a new series introducing the people who help shape and support the work of Optometry Scotland.
Over the coming months, we’ll be sharing more about our Board members, their backgrounds, the experience they bring to OS and the issues that matter most to them across community optometry.
First up is our new Chair, Richard Spruce, who shares more about his career, his role within Optometry Scotland and his priorities for the profession.
Can you tell us a bit about your current role and what your day-to-day work involves?
“I am chair of Optometry Scotland and an IP Optometrist working in an independent practice in Forth Valley and Scottish Borders. With my OS work, my day-to-day work involves lots of emails, WhatsApp messages and phone calls! There’s lots to keep up with and plenty of plates to keep spinning. I also attend lots of meetings to represent OS, probably the most important of these is the quarterly Scottish Government eyecare team meetings where we talk about service design, improvements to regulations, fees and other challenges. With the other side of my professional life, I’m seeing patients and trying to keep my practices running smoothly.”
What first inspired you to pursue a career in optometry?
“When I was 14, I got my first glasses from my local optometrist who just so happened to be my best mate’s dad (Colin Stein). At the same time, we were investigating potential careers at school and one of the suggested jobs was optometrist. Colin offered me work experience in the practice for a week, and then later through the summer holidays. I found it fascinating.“
What do you enjoy most about working in community optometry?
“It’s the patients – being able to solve a problem brough to you by a patient creates a really warm and fuzzy feeling!”
What motivated you to get involved with Optometry Scotland?
“OS is the organisation that actually seems to make change happen. I’ve been involved in groups and organisations in the past and while there was a lot of talk, there never seemed to be much of an outcome. OS speaks to the people with the power to actually change things. What do you see as the biggest opportunities for optometry in Scotland over the next few years?
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for optometry in Scotland over the next few years?
“Getting Foundation Training Year (FTY) right so it works for everyone – the practices, the student and the government.”
What are you most looking forward to in your role on the Optometry Scotland Board?
“Hopefully getting the community low vision service off the ground. It’s got the potential to really impact on patient’s lives.”
What advice would you give to someone starting out in optometry today?
“Stick your head above the parapet. Get involved in what’s happening in your profession outside of your practice.”
Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
“Currently enjoying a midlife crisis playing rugby for Hillfoots Rugby club. I’m a self-confessed nerd and I play lots of board games as well as enjoying watching films with my wife and kids.”
A big thank you to Richard for taking the time to answer our questions.
Next week, we’ll be introducing another member of the OS Board, so keep an eye out for the next feature.