National treasure Alison Hammond is back as The Recruit! This time she’s trading customers’ living rooms for Specsavers stores to shadow our expert optometrists, getting a front row seat to how routine eye tests can detect sight-threatening conditions early.
But she doesn’t stop there. Alison heads behind the scenes with Newmedica – which is part of the Specsavers family - meeting the specialists who treat conditions like cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), to see first-hand just how life-changing the treatments can be. We’re thrilled to have Alison’s help in highlighting the importance of regular eye checks and showing the expert care that’s there every step of the way.
To help replace this anxiety with understanding, ‘The Recruit – A Closer Look’ follows Alison as she shadows Preet, optometry director at Specsavers Canley, and Ash, ophthalmologist at Newmedica Birmingham. Bringing her signature humour and energy, she hears from patients Charles, Margaret, and Elfyn, about their journeys from detection through to recovery.
“Meeting people who were genuinely anxious about their eye surgery or treatment really stayed with me. I completely get it, especially as someone with a family history of glaucoma – your eyes are so precious, it’s natural to feel nervous when they’re involved.
“But after spending time with the teams at Specsavers and Newmedica and then seeing those same patients after their procedures, the difference was incredible. It showed me just how life-changing the right care can be.”
Alison Hammond
These real-life stories highlight just how important early detection is when it comes to protecting your sight. Routine eye tests are critical in catching early symptoms of conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, and AMD. That’s why Specsavers optometrists receive ongoing training from ophthalmology providers including Newmedica, so you know you’re in expert hands.
And while it’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure, understanding what to expect can make all the difference. Among those who delayed treatment for their eye condition, many said they were scared that something would go wrong with surgery, and others simply didn’t know what would happen. But for those who completed treatment, nearly three in four reported their emotional wellbeing improved, helping them get back to doing what they love.
“Cataracts, glaucoma, and AMD are among the leading causes of vision loss in the UK, collectively affecting millions of people. While these conditions can often be picked up during a routine eye test, research shows that a whopping 19 million people are failing to keep up with them1.
“At Specsavers, our expert optometrists are trained to deliver comprehensive eye checks that can help to detect early signs of serious eye conditions. We recommend getting your eyes checked every two years – as catching these conditions early can often be the difference between preserving someone's eyesight and losing it.”
Preet Bhara,
Optometry Director, Specsavers Canley
“By the time patients reach us for treatment, many are understandably anxious about the procedure and the results. However, modern eye procedures are highly advanced, quick, and deliver excellent outcomes for the majority of people. Part of our role is helping patients feel informed and reassured, so they feel confident seeking treatment sooner. Improving vision can have a profound impact on overall quality of life.”
Ash Sharma,
Consultant Ophthalmologist, Newmedica Birmingham
Putting off eye tests or treatment can cost people their sight – but it doesn’t have to.
If you or someone you know has experienced changes in your vision, book a comprehensive eye test at your nearest Specsavers store.
Disclaimer
Newmedica is part of the Specsavers family. Patients have the right to choose from a range of secondary care providers. Referral required for NHS secondary care. If patient chooses Newmedica, geographical restrictions apply.
All statistics unless otherwise stated are from a survey carried out by OnePoll on behalf of Specsavers among 2,000 adults in England in April 2026. Survey sample size was 2,000 adults, with 1,111 people aged 50+.
Of the full sample:
- 666 people were diagnosed with cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration
- 303 people have received treatment for said serious eye condition
- 178 have delayed or postponed when told they required treatment
References
- 19 million British people missing routine eye tests - Source: Eye Health UK, 2024