VDU EXAMINATIONS & COMPUTER SCREENS At some point in the day almost everyone looks at some form of computer screen. This could be in the form of anything from a Kindle, an EPOS screen, laptops, mobile phones or computer monitors for the purpose of either work or leisure. ​ People who work with electronic screens are prone to eye diseases such as Computer Vision Syndrome. This is common among people who use VDU screens at work. These screens can cause stress and issues with the eyes, and the symptoms associated are blurred vision and sore eyes. If you have dry eyes, eyestrain, headaches or even difficulty while focusing right after or during use of a VDU screen then chances are you have computer vision syndrome (CVS) and may need to take measures to avoid it. ​ Your eye examination will include questions regarding the kind of VDU screen you use at work or at home to check whether you are facing any problems. ​ The amount of focus and muscle work your eyes do can be assessed through our eye examination and you will be advised accordingly. TIPS FOR DIGITAL SCREEN USERS Take regular breaks every twenty minutes to look away from the screen. This should be sufficient rest for your eyes. Make adjustments to your monitor or screen. Most screens come with the option of adjusting contrast, this can be manipulated to a point where the stress being caused to the eyes are at a bare minimum. Avoid glare and check for lights around the screen. It is important to make sure there aren’t any bright lights around your computer screen. Anti-glare screens can be used to reduce the damaging reflections off the screen. Blink consistently to avoid dry eyes. Most people while concentrating on a screen for too long do not blink as much. This is one of the main causes of dry eyes among people. However, it can be reduced and relieved by consulting an optometrist to get recommended appropriate eye drops. This symptom is more common among people who use contact lenses. Make regular eye care appointments. The recommended period for adults is once every two years, however, it cannot hurt to be careful and make regular visits to the practice. DO YOU WORK WITH DIGITAL SCREENS? It is important to note that if you are using a VDU screen at work you are entitled to a regular eye checks by your employer. Under the European Legislation employees using VDU screens at work should receive an eye examination when they start and throughout the course of their employment at regular intervals. If a person faces any eye related issues they are entitled to an eye examination funded by their employer. If the need arises for glasses then your employer is duty bound to pay for a basic pair which is for the purpose of use with a VDU screen only. However, you can make your own choice, but will have to pay for the difference in cost. Quick links: EYE EXAMS EYEWEAR

EYE EXAMINATIONS Our eye examination, involves a thorough investigation of not only your vision, but also the co-ordination and ocular health of your eyes. We welcome any questions during the process and will fully explain any findings to you. ​ We offer both private and NHS eye tests for the whole family. ​ Why not upgrade to our extended Eye examination to benefit from our state-of-the-art equipment? EXTENDED EYE EXAMINATION For most patients, we recommend upgrading your test to our extended eye examination, for which there is an additional fee. ​ The fee reflects the high quality of our resources, the extensive cutting edge OCT & Optomap technology used by our optometrists as well ass the extra time required for the comprehensive procedures involved. ​ We are committed to the NHS, however the scope of the NHS test does not automatically include these further investigations, it only provides for a basic eye test. Consequently we do advise patients to agree to extend the scope of the NHS Sight Test to the higher standards provided by our extended eye examination. Quick links: OCT & OPTOMAP CHILDRENS EYECARE WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. "I had my first appointment at Taylor Biddle today and it was, by far , the best eye test I have had. All the staff were both professional and friendly and put me at ease on my first visit. As well as a regular eye test I had scans of my eyes done which reassured me that all was ok." - E. Somauroo - 02/2022 via Google

< Back Beth Rowley Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support Beth joined Taylor Biddle 2023 and has worked in optics for over 3 years brining a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She really enjoys helping people pick the perfect frame and has a keen eye for detail. In her spare time she enjoys yoga and spending time with her dogs who keep her very busy. Optical Dispenser

YOUR INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS IN WOLVERHAMPTON Taylor Biddle Opticians was founded in 1994 by Tracey Taylor and Mike Biddle at the Compton premises. Two years later the Wombourne practice was opened. Mike left in 2010, and in 2014 Olha Lac joined Tracey as co-director, adding to Tracey’s wealth of experience in the optical world. ​ Olha has worked for Taylor Biddle since 2005 and has gained extra qualifications in visual dyslexia which has helped many children achieve their potential. ​ In April 2021 Hasan Akhtar joined Tracey and Olha as co-director after working at Taylor Biddle since 2018. Hasan specialises in Medical Retina and Glaucoma and encourages further education and training to ensure the practice is at the forefront of providing an excellent eyecare service. YOUR PATIENT JOURNEY We endeavour to offer a service as special as your eyes as we believe you deserve the very best. 1 Call us or click to book your appointment online. 2 Quick Q&A to assess your current eye health, history and individual needs. 3 Your eye health check with state-of-the-art technology. 4 If required, it's time for expert advice on eyewear styling or new contact lenses. 5 Collection, fitting & aftercare for maintaining clear vision. BOOK ONLINE OUR DEDICATED TEAM Taylor Biddle team members stay with us for many years, ensuring a strong, knowledgeable and cohesive team. Customer service is at the heart of what we all do. This ethos, combined with heavily investing in the latest technology to improve eye care, plus offering an extensive range of frames and lenses, ensures that we will always offer the very best clinical service. MEET THE TEAM WE ARE PROUD TO OFFER EXCEPTIONAL CARE “Taylor Biddle Opticians look after three generations in our family with equal care and expertise. Tracey is always available for caring support and we have easy access to appointments. Staff are welcoming and friendly at both practices.” - S.D Claverley - READ MORE REVIEWS WELCOME TO WOMBOURNE WELCOME TO COMPTON

DRY EYE & RED EYE ASSESSMENTS At our practice, we often come across patients with ocular hyperaemia (red eye), discharge and discomfort. This is primarily managed with ocular lubricants, over-the-counter remedies and remedial eyelid hygiene. For patients who are not entitled to exemptions from NHS charges, we can prescribe ointments and eye drops via signed orders. ​ We find that the majority problems leading to red eyes are not from infections, but often allergic/seasonal conjunctivitis which would not benefit from anti-biotic medication. ​ It may be that your case requires urgent intervention and so we ensure to see red eye patients as soon as possible upon arrival to the practice. We find a brief appointment (15 minutes) is sufficient to make a diagnosis. As the examination is only of the external eye, a full eye examination or refraction is not normally required. WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE? Ageing over 60’s are the most common group to suffer Hot, dry or windy climates – causes evaporation of tears Inflammatory diseases – e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joints is associated with higher risk of dry eyes. Side effects from medications – e.g. The oral contraceptive pill HOW IS DRY EYE SYNDROME TREATED? There is no absolute ‘cure’ for dry eye syndrome. However, most people can get significant relief from symptoms using a variety of treatments and measures. LID MARGIN HYGIENE If the underlying cause is blepharitis or lid margin disease, then treating this can often improve the ocular surface and reduce symptoms. ​ This can be done by simply applying a hot compress using hot tap water and a clean flannel to the eye each day, and then cleaning the lid margin with the water and the flannel. Some people recommend using chemicals such as baby shampoo and sodium bicarbonate, but more often than not, these can cause ocular surface irritation, and so at least initially, are best avoided. LUBRICANTS Regular lubrication in the form of gels or drops can help keep the surface of the eyes wet, and thus reduce symptoms. Often, this is combined with lid margin hygiene. ​ There are a wide range of eye drops available – consult your optometrist, GP or ophthalmologist for advice on which to use. For a full dry eye and red eye assessment contact us at Taylor Biddle today. GET IN TOUCH

EYECARE PLANS We are now offering exclusive Eyecare plans to spread the cost of enhanced eyecare . Currently the standard NHS funded eye exam is the same as it was when it was first implemented in 1948, but technology and expertise have increased a hundredfold since then. ​ Eye conditions that previously would have caused blindness are often treatable, and there is now the ability to detect these problems early with the aid of cutting-edge technology like our OCT & Optomap. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Inclusive Eye examinations As often as needed Extended eye examinations Longer appointment times Value for money Spread the cost monthly, no lump sum Peace of mind ​ Terms & Conditions apply PRIVATE EYE EXAMINATION PLAN (PEEP) Our PEEP plan provides excellent value for money and peace of mind. For a monthly fee of just £6.50, it will cover all of your professional charges, see you as often as required, and not at strictly defined time intervals as laid out by the NHS. ​ You will be booked for a longer appointment so that there is more time to discuss your requirements and to carry out any further tests as needed so that we can provide the best possible care for you. WHATS INCLUDED? £7.50 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30’s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment TAYLOR BIDDLE OPTICIANS EYECARE PLAN (TBO ECP) This Premium Plan covers the extended eye examination and all the benefits included in PEEP, but also gives a greater value for spectacle wearers with 25% discount on all eyewear and a two year accidental damage guarantee for an additional peace of mind. £13 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment Consultant requested fields test plus report Consultant requested retinal scans plus report 25% discount off spectacles and lenses 15% discount off all products and solutions (excluding contact lenses). A guarantee on new spectacles for two years (small excess applies) Minimum contract 18 months, and then 6 months after the latest purchase. WHATS INCLUDED? CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR EYECARE PLANS GET IN TOUCH Quick links: OCT & OPTOMAP EYEWEAR

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< Back Karen Rock Karen have been with Taylor Biddle Opticians since December 2019, working in a number of other customer service roles over previous years. She enjoys all aspects of busy environment working within our Compton team. In free time Karen likes taking long country walks. Admin & Optical Assistant

YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS If you can't find the answer to your query below, please contact us and we will be happy to advise. How long will my appointment take? Appointment duration can vary from person to person, depending on your appointment type and your individual needs. Please allow at least 30 minutes for your appointment. We pride ourselves on never rushing your appointment and will dedicate as much time as you need during your appointment with us. Whether you are carefully choosing new frames or have any questions any additional questions during your eye test, we are always happy to offer the extra time and care that you deserve. How much does an eye test cost? We offer both private and NHS-funded eye examinations at Taylor Biddle Opticians. Click here to select your local practice and see a full breakdown of appointment types and relevant fees. You may be entitled to a free eye test funded by the NHS. We are committed to the NHS, however the scope of the NHS test does not automatically include further investigations such as OCT & OPTOMAP, it only provides for a basic eye test. Consequently, we do advise patients to agree to extend the scope of the NHS Sight Test to the higher standards provided by our extended eye examination. An additional fee applies for this. Our Private examinations are available for those who are not eligible for NHS funding, or those who wish to upgrade their test in order to take advantage of our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. Am I eligible for a free NHS Sight Test? You're entitled to a free NHS sight test if you: are under 16 are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education are 60 or over are registered as partially sighted or blind have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma are 40 or over and your mother, father, sibling or child has been diagnosed with glaucoma have been advised by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) that you're at risk of glaucoma are a prisoner on leave from prison are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optician can advise you about your entitlement You're also entitled if you or your partner – including civil partner – receive, or you're under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving: Income Support Income-related Employment and Support Allowance Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Universal Credit and meet the criteria If you're entitled to or named on: a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate (if you do not have a certificate, you can show your award notice), you qualify if you get Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element (or both), and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2) Visit the NHS website to read the latest criteria and learn more about funding for eye tests and eyewear - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/free-nhs-eye-tests-and-optical-vouchers/ Where can I park during my appointment? There is free parking available at both our Compton and Wombourne practices. Is the practice wheelchair accessible? Both of our practices are wheelchair friendly! We are spread across one level at our Wombourne practice and our Compton location features a lift to access to the upper floor. How can I book an appointment? It's easy to book an appointment at one of our practices. You can book by telephone, email or online. Click here to select your local practice and book your next appointment today.

YOUR INDEPENDENT OPTICIANS IN WOLVERHAMPTON At Taylor Biddle Opticians, we pride ourselves on the highest levels of customer service paired with top-quality eye care and products. The two practices are conveniently located in Compton and Wombourne, both with easy disability access and free parking. MORE ABOUT US WELCOME TO WOMBOURNE WELCOME TO COMPTON SPECIALIST EYE CARE SERVICES FOR ALL YOUR FAMILY Customer service has always been at the heart of what we all do. This ethos, combined with continually pushing the boundaries by investing in the latest technology to improve eye care, and offering fabulous frames and lenses, ensures that we will always offer the very best service available anywhere. OCT & OPTOMAP EYE SCAN HEARING CARE & AUDIOLOGY CONTACT LENS FITTING & ADVICE VISUAL STRESS & COLORIMETRY DISCOVER DESIGNER EYEWEAR We stock some of the top designer frames including Ray Ban, Gotti and Jimmy Choo to name but a few. In addition we stock a fabulous selection of frames starting from just £29.99. VIEW OUR BRANDS EYEWEAR STYLING READ OUR PATIENT TESTIMONIALS “Taylor Biddle Opticians look after three generations in our family with equal care and expertise. Tracey is always available for caring support and we have easy access to appointments. Staff are welcoming and friendly at both practices.” - S.D Claverley - READ MORE REVIEWS

PATIENT TESTIMONIALS If you have feedback following your experience at either of our locations, we would love to hear from you. ​ Click below to leave a review or get in touch! S. Lawton "As always an excellent, thorough eye examination and professional scans with friendly staff. Thank you to Jo and Linda for making me feel at ease. Tom was amazing at helping me select new frames and sunglasses. He knew my style and nothing was too much trouble. Would thoroughly recommend!!!" S.D Claverley “Taylor Biddle Opticians look after three generations in our family with equal care and expertise. Tracey is always available for caring support and we have easy access to appointments. Staff are welcoming and friendly at both practices.” Mubs "First time at Taylor Biddle from a friend’s recommendation, needed my glasses relensed quite urgently and Hasan managed to fit me in the next day! Hasan, Sarah and the rest of the team were so friendly and helpful. Taylor Biddle will be my opticians for all my eye tests and I will be recommending them to all my friends and family!" C.Karatas "Many students from my practice who have reading difficulties such as dyslexia have been referred for further testing and each one has reported improvements in their vision and comfort in reading. I would have no hesitation in recommending Taylor Biddle Opticians." A. Lloyd "Very impressed with our eye examinations at Taylor Biddle. Just moved into the area, so registered as new customers. Incredibly thorough, professional and informative. Didn't feel rushed. Very good first impression and will be staying with them in the future." H. Moore "Had a very thorough eye test with Taras Lac including using 2 different scanners. I felt very confident that every aspect of my eye health was covered. All the staff are very helpful and professional. My partner recently had issues with his eye and they fitted in an emergency appointment and gave him a very detailed examination." J. Prosser "Can't recommend Taylor Biddle enough. Taras puts my daughter at ease during her visual stress tests. Staff are very welcoming and professional. Nothing is too much trouble." E. Somauroo "I had my first appointment at Taylor Biddle today and it was, by far , the best eye test I have had. All the staff were both professional and friendly and put me at ease on my first visit. As well as a regular eye test I had scans of my eyes done which reassured me that all was ok."

CONTACT LENSES At Taylor Biddle Opticians we consider contact lens aftercare to be of the utmost importance. Not only is the health of the anterior eye checked regularly, but the suitability of the contact lenses are assessed, both with regard to the type of lens and also to any subtle prescription changes. ​ Contact lens technology is advancing rapidly and new contact lenses are becoming available offering superior oxygen transmission, hence improving eye health and comfort. ​ The opportunity to discuss and trial these lenses is an important aspect of continuing contact lens aftercare. PRICE PROMISE We frequently review our prices in an effort to make sure you're always getting great value for your money. As we consider contact lens aftercare to be essential, we are happy to price match our contact lenses for those who pay for their aftercare on our direct debit scheme. ​ If cheaper prices for same lenses are available elsewhere please let us know and we will match them! Other advantages of Taylor Biddle supplying your lenses: We guarantee the lenses We provide replacements for any ripped or damaged We will exchange unopened boxes if prescriptions changed We provide emergency lenses For those who have lenses and fee on a Direct Debit each month, there is a further 50p discount. CARING FOR YOUR CONTACT LENSES WE ARE PROUD TO OFFER EXCEPTIONAL CARE "Fantastic service as always from Taras, James, Sophie & Cheryl. Had my eye test and then discussed contact lenses to replace my reading glasses. Can’t recommend the Wombourne branch highly enough! Thanks everyone" - J. Beeston-May - 11/2021 via Google