About Us

Origins and History

The origins of the Association for Independent Optometry can be traced back to the formation of the NHS in 1948. At that time there were great organisational difficulties and little guidance for practitioners. It was at this time that two dedicated optometrists, Stanley Wells and Norman Archbold, founded the forerunner of the AIO, the Optical Practitioners Standing Conference (OPSC).

Their view was that optometrists (or ophthalmic opticians as we were then known) should practice professionally and ethically, and that the best way of achieving this was in independent “rooms practice” with no window display or the like. Their idea was that the OPSC could gather like-minded practitioners together for an annual conference to share ideas and attend lectures a forerunner of today’s CET.

The deliberations of OPSC were rarely reported in detail but the strength was (and still is with AIO) that it forms a platform for discussions among colleagues in varied and congenial surroundings.

AIO Conferences

The conference has been reconvened and adjourned annually within the UK ever since, with overseas conferences starting in 1987. OPSC has visited Thailand (twice), Kenya, Israel, New Zealand, India, Spain, Australia, Norway, Eire, Fiji, the Cook Islands, Greece and Mauritius.

In 2003 OPSC changed its name to the Association for Independent Optometry (Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians), more accurately to reflect the views and aspirations of its members. Membership is open to independent Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians who subscribe to highly ethical and professional practice.

The AIO Mission Statement

Members of The Association for Independent Optometry (AIO) believe independent optometric practice is an important way of delivering a high standard of clinical care to the public. The Association will encourage the promotion and development of independent practice and support and assist Independent Practitioners in pursuit of their professional duty to act in the best interests of their patients.

For guidance, “independent” is usually interpreted to mean that a practitioner:

• Should probably have no more than five practices
• May be a locum [predominantly working for independents]
• May be a hospital optician

The AOP

The AOP is an active supporter of the AIO and is working with it to provide support to Independent Practitioners across the UK and a positive future for tomorrow’s Independent Practitioners.

Email: secretary@afio.co.uk