Nearly one in 10 parents or carers (9%) only take their child for their first visit to the optometrist if an eye health or vision issue arises, new UK research found.  

The report, commissioned by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO), the College of Optometrists and the Optical Suppliers Association (OSA), also found that UK parents are confused about when and where to go for children’s eyecare advice and treatment.  

Over half (53%) of surveyed parents would go to straight to their GP for an eye infection issue and over a third (34%) would do the same for an eye discomfort issue instead of seeking advice from their local optometrist. One in 12 parents (8%) would visit their GP or call the NHS hotline if their child was experiencing a slight change in vision rather than visit an optometrist. 

Many parents were also found to believe misinformation about eyecare: over one in four parents and carers (28%) polled incorrectly believed that eye exercises can help slow myopia progression and one in five (20%) believed it’s legal to buy children’s prescription glasses online in the UK. 

Confusion was also apparent around the different roles within an optometry practice and the support parents can expect from the NHS if their child needs glasses. 

The findings enabled ABDO, the College of Optometrists and the OSA to make clear recommendations to healthcare policymakers and service providers and provide guidance to parents, they said. They have also partnered in a new campaign to raise awareness of the importance of children’s eye tests and better signposting to eyecare professionals on the high street. 

The Children’s Eye Health Report surveyed 1,008 UK parents online via Mumsnet between December 2024 and January 2025.