I have been in the Optical profession for over thirty years, and have seen and heard many strange and wonderful eye-related things. I don’t get bored with my job, because people never cease to amaze me. This week I was asked a question that I had never been asked before... and then the following day, another person asked exactly the same thing. This totally amazed me and made me realise quickly that this need to be addressed. “Can I please have a copy of my spectacle prescription, as I want to order some contact lenses to try them out?” The short answer to this is NO! You can’t order contact lenses from a spectacle prescription. The two prescriptions are completely...

Sunglasses advice in 60 seconds Video on the damage caused by UV (ultra violet) light and what steps to take to prevent it 29 July 2016 Few people consider the damage of UV (ultra violet) light to their eyes but just as it causes premature ageing in the skin, UV also causes premature ageing in the eyes. A new video from the Association of Optometrists (AOP) is helping the public protect their eyes this summer, advising on the damage caused by the sun and what steps to take to protect them. The impact of UV light can be wide reaching, from changing the appearance of the eye to causing serious diseases and conditions. Ceri Smith-Jaynes, optometrist and AOP spokesperson, explains:...

One of the most common questions people ask when buying sunglasses is: which sunglasses will suit my face shape? The first thing that should be said is - the sunglasses you like the most and that make you feel great are the ones you should buy. Our recommendations are merely a style guide to help you make a decision. Given our extensive and fabulous range of designer sunglasses, this isn't always easy! Here are the most common face shapes and which sunglasses we recommend you buy for each one. Sunglasses for heart-shaped faces Heart-shaped faces generally have a wider broad forehead, defined high cheekbones and a pointed narrow chin. We recommend sunglasses that are wider at the top than the...

Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Scheme What is NI PEARS? Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) is a service provided by Sinead McGurk Opticians for patients who develop a sudden eye problem. The NI PEARS service is for patients who develop a sudden eye condition such as: Red eye(s) Pain and/or discomfort in the eyes, or around the eye area Sudden reduction in vision in one or both eyes Recent onset or sudden increase of flashes and/or floaters in one or both eyes Suspected foreign body in the eye If you are unsure whether your symptoms qualify you for an NI PEARS examination please contact our practice for advice. You can contact our practice...

Introducing Mairead Cassidy Migliara to Sinead McGurk Opticians clientele.  Mairead is our new Optical Assistant. She is a the start of her new exciting Optical  Career. Mairead is currently enrolled with the Association of British Dispencing Opticians undertaking her Level 2 qualifications.  We are delighted that Mairead is now part of our team and has joined us on our journey.     

“Unfortunately, many serious driving accidents occur in the winter months, when driving conditions are worse and drivers’ vision becomes more limited, so it’s important you give yourself the best possible chance to avoid the dangers. Optometrists are trained to make sure your vision is corrected to the highest standard possible and can help you tackle the challenges associated with driving in difficult conditions.”  The Association of Optometrists is sharing six winter-driving tips to help keep road users safe: 1. Have a sight test Have a sight test at least every two years, or more often if your optometrist recommends it. It’s the best way to identify if your vision has changed and if you need an up-to-date prescription. Your optometrist...

We are in search of a candidate to fill this position, who has an overall enthusiastic outlook on life and who enjoys people.   The right person will be forward thinking, have an interest in fashion/style, a keen eye for detail and a willingness to learn within a fast paced Award Winning Optical Boutique. We thrive on providing the most enjoyable client journey within our practice, offering a superior service with our exclusive and technically advanced products. CRITERIA We require a new team member to: - have at least 6 GCSE’s and desirably 2 A’levels (or equivalent of.) - have previous experience working in a retail environment - be IT literate and proficient in the use of social media. -...

All new eyewear stock for A/W 2021 now arrived instore. Make an appointment for your eyewear styling consultation and get the perfect new look!  

  Global Pharma Citation:"Sinead McGurk, Optometrist of the Year 2021 (N.I.) has demonstrated expertise, dedication,  and an unwavering commitment to excellence within her field.  Our Selection Process As in previous years Global Health & Pharma has endeavoured to ensure that only the most deserving are recognised. All nominees were judged on their merits with assessment centred around an extensive evaluation of skills and services on offer.  Global Health & Pharma's merit driven approach has brought us much commendation throughout its use and allows our team to identify those most dedicated to demonstrating expertise and an unwavering commitment to excellence within their field.   

Did you know?  More than half (52%) of parents believe that every child has a full sight test at primary school, and don’t understand the limitations of what is offered. Here are some simple messages for parents and carers of children at school: A full sight test with an optometrist is more thorough than vision screening – it includes an eye health check that can detect signs of disease, and can identify colour deficiency and different types of refractive errors  Vision screening for 4-5 year olds is inconsistently delivered across the UK, with many Local Authorities not offering any service at all Vision screening is poor at identifying hyperopia and astigmatism which are common and significant refractive errors  Children should be...