Help shape the future of workplace wellbeing in UK optometry
International studies consistently highlight burnout challenges across the global optometry workforce. Here in the UK, the latest GOC Registrant Workforce and Perceptions Survey paints a nuanced picture:
✅ 55% of optical professionals remain satisfied in their roles 📉 This has declined steadily from 62% in 2023 ⚠️ Active dissatisfaction now sits at 26%
Rather than simply observing these trends, there is a clear opportunity to learn from them. By understanding what keeps practitioners engaged — and what drives workplace stress — the profession can proactively shape better environments, support long-term career satisfaction, and help optometry thrive.
This is the goal of a Master’s research project through Keele University: Workplace Wellbeing in UK Optometry. The primary researcher, Ben Ayliffe MSci MCOptom Prof Cert Med Ret Prof Cert Glau DipTp(IP), is himself a practising optometrist. You may have read about the project in Optometry Tomorrow or The Optician. The response and support so far have been fantastic, but meaningful, positive change requires the broadest possible evidence base. Every insight matters.
In a spirit of professional solidarity, optometrists across all sectors — independent, multiple, and hospital settings — are encouraged to take part. The research is interested in the full range of experiences, whether practitioners are currently thriving, facing difficulties, or somewhere in between. It explores:
• What helps optometrists feel settled, supported, and fulfilled in their roles
• What specific pressures make the current working environment difficult
If you have not yet contributed, there is still time to share your perspective.
⏳ Deadline: 31 August 2026 ⏱️ Time required: approximately 10 minutes
👉 Take the survey: https://tinyurl.com/WorkplaceWellbeingUKOptoms 📄 Project details: https://tinyurl.com/WorkplaceWellbeingUKOptomsInfo
Those who have already taken part — thank you. Your input is helping build a stronger evidence base for positive change.
Please share this with colleagues who have not yet had the chance to respond. The more voices heard, the clearer the roadmap that can be developed for the future of UK optometry. Find out more information on the research being conducted here.
Optometry Scotland is the representative body for optometrists and dispensing opticians in Scotland. Optometry Scotland is sharing this request on behalf of the researchers.
f you have any questions, please contact the OS office at office@optometryscotland.org.uk.
