Joint Vision Clinic for preschool children

Eye problems, such as squints are very common in young children. Squints are usually easily detectable and are unlikely to have a significant lasting effect on your child's vision. However a smaller number of children have moderate to severe visual impairment (6/18 or greater on vision testing) which may affect their development in different ways. 

The aim of the clinic is to provide up to date advice on the child's developmental progress and vision levels in the context of their visual impairment, and to consider any outstanding needs that have not already been addressed, as well as what adaptations may be required for your child in nursery or in school.

Children are often more relaxed and assessment is easier in our informal clinic environment. The clinic has an emphasis on developmental and visual assessment through play, as opposed to a busy hospital clinic.

The multi-agency format of the clinic facilitates communication of up to date information and advice between parents and professionals as well as between professionals in different agencies. Sharing of information is always done only with parents consent.

As a parent you will receive advice about how to promote your child's development and maximise your child's vision. With your consent this is also shared with educational settings. 

• Administrators are very skilled NHS professionals that provide all the organisational support for the clinical teams. They are also the friendly voices at the other end of the phone when contacting the service.
• Community Paediatricians have expertise in children and young people's medical and developmental needs and offer a holistic assessment.
• Orthoptists are highly trained specialists in diagnosis and treatment of eye problems in children. 
• Qualified Teachers for Visual Impairment (QTVI) are teachers who have expertise in the educational needs of children and young people with visual impairment.