There are just a couple of days left for readers to nominate 'local heroes' to win free vision treatments with Tyneside eye clinic Optegra Newcastle, based on the Team Valley Trading Estate in Gateshead. The campaign, called 'Who deserves to be seen?', is an opportunity for the clinic to give back to those who spend their time looking out for others in the community. Winners will receive free vision treatments such as laser eye surgery.
Campaign Details and Eligibility
As reported previously by the Chronicle, the idea is to celebrate those who 'go above and beyond', whether they are volunteers or community leaders, as long as they live within 30 miles of Newcastle. The campaign ends on Friday, June 26th, but there is still time for those who wish to nominate members of their community to do so.
The clinic is part of the multinational firm EssilorLuxottica and provides a range of care including laser eye surgery and cataract surgery. Chris Chisholm, Clinical Services Director at the Newcastle Clinic, said: “We looked into areas where we could give something back.”
Impact and Community Focus
The Newcastle Clinic opened in 2021 and has since provided 9,500 treatments to those in the area, offering a better quality of life for those who have come to see them. The choice of laser eye surgery can be a huge financial commitment for some, so the opportunity to help those who help their community by offering these services is something that the company is proud to do.
For local boy Chris, there is something extra special about giving back to his home community. He said: “I’ve lived here all my life so Newcastle and its community is very special to me.” If a potential winning unsung hero is not suitable for surgery, Optegra has said they would receive a £300 Vision Express voucher towards future glasses or contacts as a thank you.
How to Nominate
Nominations close on Friday, but Chris’s last message to those who may have someone in mind is: “Anyone can nominate someone, friends, family or colleagues. The requirement is that they are selfless and are someone who has helped or supported those in their local community.” For those still wanting to nominate or learn more, click here.
