In cases where applicants could benefit from assistance in organising and managing their financial affairs, we can direct them towards specialists who advise on personal financial matters. Sometimes, arranging a mortgage holiday, consolidating debt or handling personal finances in a more efficient way is all that is needed to get some people through a difficult patch. Whatever the nature of the crisis, we can be on hand to get people the expertise that they need.
As well as offering financial support, we can also assist in the purchase of equipment to meet specific needs.
Someone who requires help may apply directly to the Benevolent Fund or may be referred by another party.
Any optometrist, retired optometrist who have been registered with the General Optical Council, a widow or widower of a optometrist or a retired optometrist. We can also help any dependent of an optometrist for financial support. Pre-registration trainees are also eligible to apply for support in exceptional circumstances.
Assistance from OptomHelp may be offered to beneficiaries on an immediate or short-term basis, depending on individual needs. In addition to financial support, the fund may also provide grants for specific needs such as medical equipment, back to work courses, or counselling services.
You can contact OptomHelp directly for guidance on the application process. Support is available via our website, by email or by phone- whichever is most convenient for you.
While financial assistance is a key part of what we do, we offer a holistic approach including connecting people to specialist organisations who can advise on organising and managing finances, and also career support for returning optometrists, or individuals who can no longer practice. Other support can be help with medical support devices such as wheelchairs, IT or low vision aids.
