Cynon Valley Leader column – 1st February

Reform of the NHS to relieve pressure on our hospitals is an important priority for the Welsh Government. Across Wales, local opticians are being trained to become independent prescribers, able to diagnose and treat conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration, eliminating the need for patients to be added to hospital waiting lists and instead allowing swift, safe, specialist care in a local setting. One of these is Chris Evans of Gwynns Opticians in Aberdare. It was fascinating to talk to Chris about the benefits this new system is already bringing to his patients.

With good eye health being so important, it’s vital that everyone gets their eyes checked regularly. There is support available to help with the costs of eye care, and if you are unsure if you are eligible you can check online at https://www.gov.wales/get-help-nhs-eye-care-costs. Alternatively, just contact my office or ask one of our local opticians – I am sure they will be keen to help.

I recently attended Cwmaman Primary School, where Years 4, 5 and 6 grilled me on my role as Member of the Senedd for Cynon Valley as part of their investigation into democracy and leadership. One of the key purposes of the Welsh Government’s new curriculum is to ensure our children and young people are ready to be ethical, informed citizens of Wales and the world, so it is good to see the steps local schools are putting in place to deliver this. The pupils will also be visiting the Senedd in the spring. If any Cynon Valley school would like me to speak to their pupils, or would like information on the subsidised travel opportunities the Senedd offers so that classes can visit the Welsh Parliament in Cardiff Bay, please just get in touch.

If I can ever be of assistance, please email me ([email protected]) or telephone my Aberdare office on 01685 881388.