“I would say that a lot of people are in the same situation as me and I’m just so frustrated at being left in this position.”
A Co Antrim woman says the health inequality that now exists for claimants of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland means having to "either pay for an eye test or get the food shopping in".
Lauren said: “I booked my eye exam but had no knowledge of the changes in charges until I turned up to the appointment on Friday 27 October. “It's taken me ages to complete the form. It’s not straightforward at all and I find it ironic that someone requiring an eye check and so maybe suffering with a problem with their sight, has to now struggle to complete a complicated 22-page form.
“I would say that a lot of people are in the same situation as me and I’m just so frustrated at being left in this position. Paula Beattie, Policy and Campaigns Manager at RNIB in Northern Ireland, said: “We know that 50% of sight loss is avoidable. However, this issue puts people in NI at a significant disadvantage, and at greater risk of missing the early signs of a problem with their sight.
“We as optometrists work so hard to detect eye conditions early to prevent sight loss. But the key is being able to see a patient regularly and as quickly as possible when a concern arises. “In other words, all barriers to eye care are removed and sight threatening conditions can be detected earlier. Join our Belfast Live breaking news service on WhatsApp Click this link or scan the QR code to receive breaking news and top stories from Belfast Live. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Universal Credit Healthcare Inequality Northern Ireland Eye Test Food Shopping RNIB NI
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