Ipswich based Kite Opticians has been named as a finalist for the ‘Family Optician of the Year’ award as a result of its family friendly focus.
The practice has many long-standing clients who have entrusted the health of their eyes to Kites for thirty years or more and whose children and grandchildren have also become clients. In many cases three generations of the same family regularly attend for eye checks.
Kite Opticians’ highly professional approach has led to the establishment of a reading difficulties clinic to help families establish whether any eye problems are affecting their children’s reading. In particular Kite Opticians is a specialist in colour overlay testing and colorimetry which can identify visual stress (‘Irlen’ syndrome), an often overlooked cause of reading problems.
The practice also introduced a new range of child-friendly features to eye care including colouring packs and toys while children wait, favourite cartoon characters on eye test charts and a child friendly dispensing area with toddler to teenager frame designs.
For elderly clients Kite Opticians has easy access, a disabled toilet and the latest technology to monitor eye health. Unhurried thoroughness of examinations has led to great loyalty from the clients. A partnership with a hearing care specialist allows people to have a hearing test at the practice when they visit if they wish. Home visits are also provided for those who find difficulty getting out.
The final aspect to impress judges was Kite Opticians’ community involvement, which over the past year has included sponsorship of Team Ipswich and an archery tournament as well as involvement with local schools.
The developments at the practice and the care and attention for clients appealing to young and old alike helped increase the number of new clients by 50% in 2008 and 17% in 2009, despite the recession. Turnover has also increased.
Adrian Kite of Kite Opticians, said:" The Optician awards are very strongly contended from every part of the UK, so it is a real honour to have made the final. It is our approach of personal care and attention in looking after every member of the family's eyes that has resulted in this recognition. What’s really pleasing is the wonderful reaction we’ve had to the news from our clients.”
The final judging required testimonials to be supplied by existing clients.
He added: “The support we had from our clients is testament to the dedicated team we have here who go the extra mile in ensuring everyone who visits us, young or old, enjoy the very best in eye care. I had a warm glow after reading the lovely comments made about us!"
The Family Optician of the Year Award is a category in the national Optician Awards 2010. Kite Opticians will be attending the presentation ceremony at The Hilton, Park Lane in London on 17 April. Four other family based opticians from around the UK have also been short-listed.
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