Eye health

According to Public Health England, Barnsley has the worst rate of preventable sight loss in the country. Half of cases are avoidable by having regular eye tests every 2 years. Aswell as stopping smoking, eating healthily, keeping eyes covered in the sun and only drinking alcohol in moderation.

Eye tests

An eye test can pick up the first signs of an eye condition before you notice any vision changes. There's lots of opticians in Barnsley; you can find out about visiting an opticians.

You could be entitled to a free eye test or help towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. This depends on your age and or if you suffer from a particular health condition. You're also entitled if you receive certain benefits. Find out if you're eligible for a free eye test on the NHS website. You can also check with your optician before you book your test.

Barnsley Optometry First - Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS)

There are 25 opticians in Barnsley who offer a free service for people with minor eye problems.  This includes sore eyes through the MECS scheme. Patients will be asked questions about their symptoms to assess how serious the problem is. They will be offered an opticians appointment within 24 hours if urgent or within a few days if less urgent. This means you don’t have to wait to see a GP or attend A and E. 

Minor eye conditions include:

  • Dry eye, gritty and uncomfortable eyes
  • Something in the eye                                         
  • Irritation and inflammation of the eye
  • Pain in the eye                                                                             
  • In-growing eyelashes                                       
  • A lot of recent sticky discharge from the eye, or a watery eye

Find out more about the First Minor Eye Care Service.

More information

Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO)

The ECLO is here to help you and your loved ones face the future with confidence. We're part of the RNIB and are based at Barnsley Hospital. We're able to assist people with an eye condition to access the support they may need, when they need it.

We provide advice on a range of matters, including:

  • Living with sight loss and remaining independent
  • Details of latest aids, equipment and technology
  • Benefits and concessions you could be entitled too
  • Education, employment, housing and leisure
  • Eye conditions and treatment information
  • Emotional support
  • The advantages of certification and registration

We can help if:

  • You are newly diagnosed
  • You've been living with a sight condition for some time

For more information, contact the Eye clinic officers on 01226 432684.

Sensory Impairment Team

If you've any sight or hearing loss that affects your daily life.  Then you can find out more about an assessment. You can receive advice and support on specialist equipment to help you live on your own. There is no charge for the service. There may be a cost for some of the equipment recommended for you. 

Contact the Sensory Impairment Team on (01226) 775800, Minicom users - (01226) 787856 or text - 07825 454888

Barnsley Education Inclusion Services 

Helping schools and settings support children and young people with SEN and disabilities. Our specialist qualified team of professionals have a breadth of knowledge and experience. Mainly in meeting the needs of children and young people with SEND. 

We can offer your school or setting tailored support. This is to improve the progress and outcomes for pupils who have a range of SEND needs. 

Contact Barnsley's Education Inclusion service to find out more about our specialist support, resources, and events. They can also give you useful information from other schools and settings.

Additional resources

Visual impairment

Dual sensory impairment