AN opticians in Malvern is preparing to return to “normal” service with new safety procedures being put in place.

Graham Road’s Holland Opticians will be taking patients for more routine eye tests for the first time since March.

As a result, the business has had to bring in new safety systems.

Extra measures include staff being equipped with full PPE, social distancing procedures and equipment, touchpoints.

Frames are also now sanitised after each use.

Partner and optometrist Kirsty Litherland said: “There will be changes in practice, like our patients having to wear their face mask or covering to the appointment, and the team wearing the appropriate PPE, but these are in place to keep us all safe, as the health of our patients and team members will always be our priority.

“What will remain is our commitment to offering patients the same top-quality care that they are used to.

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“It’s been a pleasure to continue to serve the community throughout the lockdown and we’re very much looking forward to seeing the friendly faces of our patients once again.”

Although now reopening for routine appointments, the independent opticians has been working throughout the lockdown to support the community.

This has included conducting emergency eye appointments, delivering glasses to the door of vulnerable patients who were self-isolating, and updating their website to allow customers to purchase glasses and sunglasses online.

The opticians is not, at this moment, accepting walk-ins to the practice and all patients are urged to call the practice to book their appointment prior to visiting.

Following new guidance from NHS England, Holland Opticians is accepting patients who have noticed a change in their vision or who feel they need new spectacles, for consultations with their optometrists.

Patients will now also be able to purchase glasses, sunglasses and contact lenses in practice, as well as have complimentary style consultations with practice team members.