The team from Specsavers in Ripon have raised more than £1,000 for a vision support charity as part of National Eye Health Week.
The branch, which is committed to promoting better eye health in the local community, raised funds and awareness for Vision Support through a host of activities during September.
They raised £1,220 by donating £10 for every enhanced eye test taken in-store.
And through a commuter bike ride over two days, the team cycled an impressive 383 miles – the equivalent of cycling from the store to the Scottish Highlands – smashing their target of 174 miles.
The funds raised will be used to finance taxis for those unable to attend Vision Support’s support group.
It will also provide IT equipment for those needing remote access to services and help establish a social group specifically for working-age and younger individuals.
Katharine Friis, director at Specsavers Ripon, said:
“On behalf of the team, we want to thank everyone who donated and helped raise much-needed funds for Vision Support, and to let them know that their donations have gone towards helping individuals in our community access the support they deserve.
“We aimed to use NEHW to highlight the importance of such a pillar in our community and to shed light on the significance of eye health to our customers and community.”
She added:
“Many people don't realise that sight loss can often be prevented or treated if a condition is caught early.
“Regular eye tests are essential for everyone, even if your vision seems fine.
“Eye tests are not just about glasses; they can identify serious conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and high blood pressure or risk of stroke.’
The Specsavers team also attended Vision Support’s weekly meeting at Allhallowgate Methodist Church to provide the 30 visitors with expert advice on how their team can assist them with sight loss and to answer any questions they might have about specific eye conditions.
They hosted an 'ask the optometrist' session online and in store to answer community questions about eye health.
Tanya Stimpson, director at Vision Support Harrogate District, said:
“A huge thank you to the team at Specsavers Ripon for their incredible support, and to the community members who donated.
“The money raised will not only fund transport for members but also help them build stronger relationships through an isolating condition, directly assisting some of the most vulnerable people in our local community to access the practical and emotional support they receive through their weekly Vision Support Group.
“From the donation amount alone, we can see how generous our community is in ensuring individuals' needs are met.”
For more information on Specsavers Ripon or to book an appointment, call the store on 01765 694 777 or visit www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/Ripon
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