AN ESTABLISHED business in York is backing the new Independents Code to help people identify the quality standard for independent opticians throughout the UK.

The new professional code of conduct for independent opticians will set the bar ever higher -ensuring patients get the best possible service available. The Independents Code (IC) logo is expected to become the mark of excellence for independent opticians.

VisionCare Optometry, formerly known as Ruth Perrott Community Optometrist, has been established for over 25 years and is still led by expert optometrist Ruth Perrott.

She said: “The practices have always been committed to providing an excellent long-term eye health service and the Independents Code recognises that.

“VisionCare has been a thriving practice in York for many years and we have developed a robust reputation via our patients, many of whom have used us for years. We care for them carefully, which often enables us to assess underlying health issues, likewise we don’t try and sell them eye wear products that they don’t need.

“The optometry market has changed rapidly in the last 15 years and become much more populated. As an independent we feel it’s important that the public recognise the options available and realise they have a choice of eye care service providers, many of whom provide specialisms.

“We feel this new standard will help us achieve that, while reinforcing our drive to place the patient and their needs first.”

In addition to providing a wide range of eye health services, VisionCare is one of only 55 practices in the UK which offers behavioural optometry.

This specialism offers an individual treatment programme designed to improve visual function and performance. It is particularly appropriate for certain eye disorders, and in particular many children that may appear to be struggling at school have benefited from it.