SPECSAVERS is opening its stores out-of-hours to offer free eye care for people experiencing homelessness.
The pilot scheme has seen 45 stores across the UK sign up to offer free sight tests, eye-care, and glasses in a safe, judgement-free space.
The initiative follows research that found 40 per cent of those affected by homelessness have problems with their eyes or vision.
But 44 per cent have never had an eye test or haven't had one in more than five years.
Of those, 29 per cent have been putting it off, due to not feeling comfortable (16 per cent) and believing that glasses would be too expensive (nine per cent).
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Fear of discrimination or judgement were also notable barriers, with 42 per cent believing their housing situation would affect how they are viewed by health professionals.
Christina Colton, who was previously homeless, said: “When I was homeless, my vision was blurry, but I was anxious about getting my eyes tested because I felt confused about what I might be asked to pay.
“An eye test was not a priority and it’s not accessible.
“Not being able to access eye care and glasses often leads to further health problems, keeping people out of work and in a cycle of poverty.
“Now, the moment I wake up in the morning I put my glasses on - they make me feel good about myself and it’s essential for all people to have access to eye care.”
The research, conducted by Expert Focus and Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP) and supported by Specsavers, spoke with 45 adults who have been affected by homelessness.
It found 42 per cent of glasses-wearers have frequently been without theirs, due to losing them (33 per cent), or they were broken (11 per cent).
Discussing the impact of this, 44 per cent have experienced physical symptoms such as headaches, while 18 per cent have difficulty seeing faces.
And 44 per cent find it difficult to read small print on forms or prescription labels, while 31 per cent struggle to see signs or bus numbers.
When asked about the impact receiving free eye care or glasses would have on their lives, 29 per cent felt it would help them with working or finding work.
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And 49 per cent would feel more confident.
As a result, the high-street optician is also calling on the government to remove the unnecessary barriers to eye health services for those experiencing homelessness.
Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of Specsavers, said: “Specsavers was set up to make eye care available and affordable for everyone.
“We know there are health inequalities for people experiencing homelessness and we want to help tackle them.
“By working with our charity partners and volunteering at their clinics, as well as trialling our own out-of-hours pilot in stores, we want to help those affected by homelessness access the care they need.
“We hope that by having a positive eye care experience, it will give people confidence to come back in the future and to access other healthcare services.”