Welcome to the Optometry Scotland Policy Hub!

Overview

Optometry Scotland works on behalf of community optometry to influence policy, secure sustainable funding, and shape services that meet patients need.

Our policy work focuses on protecting General Ophthalmic Services (GOS), expanding community based eye care, and ensuring Scotland has a workforce fit for the future.

We do this by:

  • Working directly with Scottish Government, NHS partners and elected representatives
  • Using member insight and data to inform policy
  • Promoting community optometry as a solution to hospital pressures
  • Supporting members to engage locally and nationally

Everything we do is grounded in real practice experience and patient outcomes.

Our Strategy

Our strategy is shaped by our members’ voices and focused on action. We use real-world insight from across the sector to inform our priorities, lobby effectively, and maintain close, constructive relationships with the Scottish Government to secure outcomes that support community optometry and patient care. Please see more about our main strategies below, where you can read position statements.

What We Have Achieved

  • Introduction of annual GOS Fee Reviews
  • Community Glaucoma Service (CGS) Development
  • Community Low Vision Service (CLVS) planning and development, following the mention in the Scottish Budget
  • Cross-party support and interest in our OCT Report and the impact of technology like OCT
  • Introduction of GOS Specialist Supplementary (GOS SS)
  • Regular engagement with MSP’s across Scotland
  • Practice visits hosted by members nationwide
  • Workforce research commissioned

Evidence and Insights

Our policy positions are informed by:

  • Members
  • Our Board
  • Our Council
  • Current research and policy discussions
  • Service pilots and developments
  • Patient case studies

We use this evidence to shape conversations with Scottish Government and NHS partners and to demonstrate how community optometry delivers value.

Policy Positions and Overview

Working to re-establish a national Community Low Vision Service so people with sight loss can access timely, local support through community optometry. Focused on sustainable funding, a consistent service model, and appropriate training to improve patient outcomes and reduce pressure on hospital services.

Supporting the rollout and refinement of CGS so stable glaucoma patients can be managed safely in community practice, improving access for patients while easing demand on secondary care.

Shaping the future workforce by influencing FTY delivery, supervisor capacity and placement models, with a focus on supporting independent practices and ensuring eye care access across all communities.

Protecting and strengthening GOS through ongoing engagement with Scottish Government on fees and service development, ensuring funding reflects the realities of modern clinical practice and supports sustainable community care.

Supporting the development of enhanced community services, including service design, remuneration and workforce readiness, to expand the clinical role of optometrists in a way that is practical and sustainable for practices.

Policy in Action

Real engagement makes change happen. Here we showcase:

  • Members hosting MSPs in practice
  • Careers events and school visits
  • Community outreach
  • Parliamentary engagement
  • Service delivery in action
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What’s Next…

Upcoming activity includes:

  • Parliamentary low vision event in March 2026
  • Ongoing Scottish Government meetings
  • Workforce research milestones
  • Continued response to public consultations
  • Further service development work

How you can help

Whether you’re a member, a practice team, or someone interested in community eye care, there are lots of ways to support our work.

If you are an Optometry Scotland member:

  • Invite your local MSP or MP to your practice
  • Share feedback on services and challenges from your area
  • Share pictures of your practice and teams for our social media
  • Support careers events and school visits
  • Provide case studies

Members can also access resources, briefings and updates via the Member Hub. If you’re unsure where to start, contact the OS office and we’ll help.

If you’re not yet a member:

Optometry Scotland represents hundreds of community practices across Scotland.

By joining, you gain:

  • Representation in national policy discussions
  • Support with service development
  • Access to guidance, briefings and resources
  • Opportunities to shape the future of community optometry

Information on joining is available here, or contact us directly to discuss membership.

Keep up to date with the latest OS News on our socials:

Policy FAQs

How does OS influence policy?

We engage directly with Scottish Government, NHS bodies and elected representatives, backed by member evidence and data.

How is member feedback used?

Your feedback shapes our priorities, strengthens funding negotiations, and informs service design.

Do I need experience to host an MSP?

No. OS provides briefing materials and support throughout.

How long does policy change take?

Meaningful change takes time, but consistent engagement delivers results.

Where can I access publications?

Publications

Looking to read our OS publications? Visit here.