< Back Beth Rowley Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support Beth joined Taylor Biddle 2023 and has worked in optics for over 3 years brining a wealth of knowledge and expertise. She really enjoys helping people pick the perfect frame and has a keen eye for detail. In her spare time she enjoys yoga and spending time with her dogs who keep her very busy. Optical Dispenser

< Back Julia Kwiatkowski As Practice Manager at Taylor Biddle, Julia enjoys taking on the many challenges that help to make the business thrive. Outside of work, her main interests are gardening, antiques, design, music and socialising with friends and family. Practice Manager

< Back Joanna Peppiatt BSc (Hons) MCOptom Joanna has been qualified Optometrist since 2007 after graduating from Anglia Ruskin University. She enjoys all aspects of optometry and specialises in Eyedream Orthokeratology Contact lenses. She likes reading, running and spending time with family. Optometrist

Looking for contact lenses and not sure where to start. Take a look at our contact lens collection or get in touch. CONTACT LENSES At Taylor Biddle Opticians we consider contact lens aftercare to be of the utmost importance. Not only is the health of the anterior eye checked regularly, but the suitability of the contact lenses are assessed, both with regard to the type of lens and also to any subtle prescription changes. Contact lens technology is advancing rapidly and new contact lenses are becoming available offering superior oxygen transmission, hence improving eye health and comfort. The opportunity to discuss and trial these lenses is an important aspect of continuing contact lens aftercare. PRICE PROMISE We frequently review our prices in an effort to make sure you're always getting great value for your money. As we consider contact lens aftercare to be essential, we are happy to price match our contact lenses for those who pay for their aftercare on our direct debit scheme. If cheaper prices for same lenses are available elsewhere please let us know and we will match them! Other advantages of Taylor Biddle supplying your lenses: We guarantee the lenses We provide replacements for any ripped or damaged We will exchange unopened boxes if prescriptions changed We provide emergency lenses For those who have lenses and fee on a Direct Debit each month, there is a further 50p discount. CARING FOR YOUR CONTACT LENSES WE ARE PROUD TO OFFER EXCEPTIONAL CARE "Fantastic service as always from Taras, James, Sophie & Cheryl. Had my eye test and then discussed contact lenses to replace my reading glasses. Can’t recommend the Wombourne branch highly enough! Thanks everyone" - J. Beeston-May - 11/2021 via Google

Dry eye red eye assessments, this is primarily managed with ocular lubricants, over-the-counter remedies and remedial eyelid hygiene DRY EYE & RED EYE ASSESSMENTS At our practice, we often come across patients with ocular hyperaemia (red eye), discharge and discomfort. This is primarily managed with ocular lubricants, over-the-counter remedies and remedial eyelid hygiene. For patients who are not entitled to exemptions from NHS charges, we can prescribe ointments and eye drops via signed orders. We find that the majority problems leading to red eyes are not from infections, but often allergic/seasonal conjunctivitis which would not benefit from anti-biotic medication. It may be that your case requires urgent intervention and so we ensure to see red eye patients as soon as possible upon arrival to the practice. We find a brief appointment (15 minutes) is sufficient to make a diagnosis. As the examination is only of the external eye, a full eye examination or refraction is not normally required. WHAT CAUSES DRY EYE? Ageing over 60’s are the most common group to suffer Hot, dry or windy climates – causes evaporation of tears Inflammatory diseases – e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis affecting the joints is associated with higher risk of dry eyes. Side effects from medications – e.g. The oral contraceptive pill HOW IS DRY EYE SYNDROME TREATED? There is no absolute ‘cure’ for dry eye syndrome. However, most people can get significant relief from symptoms using a variety of treatments and measures. LID MARGIN HYGIENE If the underlying cause is blepharitis or lid margin disease, then treating this can often improve the ocular surface and reduce symptoms. This can be done by simply applying a hot compress using hot tap water and a clean flannel to the eye each day, and then cleaning the lid margin with the water and the flannel. Some people recommend using chemicals such as baby shampoo and sodium bicarbonate, but more often than not, these can cause ocular surface irritation, and so at least initially, are best avoided. LUBRICANTS Regular lubrication in the form of gels or drops can help keep the surface of the eyes wet, and thus reduce symptoms. Often, this is combined with lid margin hygiene. There are a wide range of eye drops available – consult your optometrist, GP or ophthalmologist for advice on which to use. For a full dry eye and red eye assessment contact us at Taylor Biddle today. GET IN TOUCH

The Minor Eye Conditions Service (MECS) provides assessment and treatment for people with recently occurring minor eye problems. It is an NHS service provided by accredited optometrists COVID-19 URGENT EYESERVICE (CUES) We can now see you under a free service (if you’re registered with a Wolverhampton or South Staffs GP) for minor eye conditions, instead of you having to go to the Eye Infirmary. This free service is available for people of all ages. Our optometrists have undergone further training in order to treat a number of minor eye concerns. Please note that this is not a sight test. Also, if you have a major eye condition that is being regularly monitored by your optometrist or hospital eye service, it will not be covered by this service; for example, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma. WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED AT A MECS APPOINTMENT? Foreign body in the eye Red eye or eyelids Dry eye, or gritty and uncomfortable eyes Irritation and inflammation of the eye Significant recent sticky discharge from the eye, or watery eye Recently occurring flashers of floaters Ingrowing eyelashes Recent and sudden loss of vision HOW CAN I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT? To make an appointment, call us and you will be asked some questions about your symptoms. This will enable us to assess how quickly you need to be seen, which will be within 24 hours in urgent cases and within a few days for a routine appointment. Please bring your glasses and a list of your current medication along to the appointment. The optometrist may put drops in your eyes to enlarge your pupils in order to get a better view inside your eyes. You should not drive until the effects of these drops has worn off, which may take a few hours. Our optometrists are able to issue prescriptions to treat minor eye conditions. If your condition is more serious, the optometrist will book you an urgent appointment at a hospital eye clinic. If you need a routine appointment with a hospital, the optometrist will organise this for you. You may also be advised to make an appointment with your GP if your eye condition is related to your general health. Before you go to hospital, ask your optometrist. Quick links: GET IN TOUCH EYE TESTS

Myopia control or myopia management is the area of children's eye care dedicated to slowing down childhood myopia progression. MYOPIA CONTROL Myopia (short sightedness) is becoming far more prevalent amongst children, and it’s estimated that by the year 2050, roughly half of the world’s population will be myopic. Some children have a continual progression of their myopia throughout their school years – often only stabilising when they have achieved full growth/adulthood. Children are more likely to have progressive myopia if: One or both parents are myopic Being of East Asian ethnic origin Spending limited time outdoors/lots of close/computer work Developing myopia before nine years old may significantly increase the risk of developing high myopia Not only does myopia progression means that the spectacles get thicker and heavier as they increase in strength, and that your child becomes more dependent on them as they are increasingly unable to see without them, but there are eye health benefits of limiting the progression and end stage prescription. Myopia management may reduce the risk of your child developing myopia related sight loss in adulthood. We now have several methods open to us to limit the progression of myopia. MYOPA MANAGEMENT CONTACT LENSES There are two types of contact lenses available: Soft specialist daily contact lenses – which need to be worn for about 10-12 hours a day for at least 6 days a week. Spectacles are required when contact lenses are not worn. The contact lenses can be fitted from as young as 8 years old. They go up to a -6.00 prescription and the direct debit is £45pm. Ortho K/EyeDream lenses – These are ‘hard’ lenses which are worn overnight. The lens gently reshapes the cornea (front of the eye) altering the prescription so that spectacles/contacts are not required during the day. These lenses are worn every night for a minimum of 8 hours. Additional spectacles are not required. These lenses can be fitted from the age of 8 and manage myopia (short sightedness) up to -4.50 and astigmatism up to -1.50. Click here to learn more. MYOPIA MANAGEMENT SPECTACLE LENSES If your child would prefer glasses instead of contact lenses, we are proud to offer two different advanced spectacle lenses as an alternative - MiYOSMART and Stellest. From HOYA, the MiYOSMART lenses are an innovative spectacle lens incorporating ‘DIMs’ technology (defocus incorporated multiple segments). Worn full time, they are lightweight, impact resistant and go up to a -10.00 prescription. Stellest lenses from Essilor also aim to slow the progression of Myopia. Thanks to their H.A.L.T technology, research suggests that Stellest lenses can slow down myopia progression by 67% on average when compared to single vision lenses. The initial set-up fee for MiYOSMART or Stellest lenses is £195 which includes the NHS voucher and a basic frame, thereafter a direct debit payment of £45pm. All follow-up appointments are included together with new lenses every 12 months or sooner if there is a prescription change. A second pair can be purchased at a special price of £100 which includes a basic frame. All the above monthly direct debits include any NHS sight tests and vouchers applicable. No method is guaranteed to work, but research shows an average of 60% slowing down of Myopia progression. Quick links: CHILDRENS EYECARE ORTHO-K

The latest news from Taylor Biddle Opticians. READ OUR LATEST BLOG POSTS Taylor Biddle Are Making Bald Moves for Charity Fundraising How Does Visual Stress Affect Children? World Diabetes Day – The Importance of Maintaining Good Eye Health How can contact lenses for children help to preserve their vision? Our Top 3 Eyewear Picks For 2021 1 2 FOLLOW US FOR THE LATEST NEWS

Your eye examination will include questions regarding the kind of VDU screen you use at work or at home to check whether you are facing any problems VDU EXAMINATIONS & COMPUTER SCREENS At some point in the day almost everyone looks at some form of computer screen. This could be in the form of anything from a Kindle, an EPOS screen, laptops, mobile phones or computer monitors for the purpose of either work or leisure. People who work with electronic screens are prone to eye diseases such as Computer Vision Syndrome. This is common among people who use VDU screens at work. These screens can cause stress and issues with the eyes, and the symptoms associated are blurred vision and sore eyes. If you have dry eyes, eyestrain, headaches or even difficulty while focusing right after or during use of a VDU screen then chances are you have computer vision syndrome (CVS) and may need to take measures to avoid it. Your eye examination will include questions regarding the kind of VDU screen you use at work or at home to check whether you are facing any problems. The amount of focus and muscle work your eyes do can be assessed through our eye examination and you will be advised accordingly. TIPS FOR DIGITAL SCREEN USERS Take regular breaks every twenty minutes to look away from the screen. This should be sufficient rest for your eyes. Make adjustments to your monitor or screen. Most screens come with the option of adjusting contrast, this can be manipulated to a point where the stress being caused to the eyes are at a bare minimum. Avoid glare and check for lights around the screen. It is important to make sure there aren’t any bright lights around your computer screen. Anti-glare screens can be used to reduce the damaging reflections off the screen. Blink consistently to avoid dry eyes. Most people while concentrating on a screen for too long do not blink as much. This is one of the main causes of dry eyes among people. However, it can be reduced and relieved by consulting an optometrist to get recommended appropriate eye drops. This symptom is more common among people who use contact lenses. Make regular eye care appointments. The recommended period for adults is once every two years, however, it cannot hurt to be careful and make regular visits to the practice. DO YOU WORK WITH DIGITAL SCREENS? It is important to note that if you are using a VDU screen at work you are entitled to a regular eye checks by your employer. Under the European Legislation employees using VDU screens at work should receive an eye examination when they start and throughout the course of their employment at regular intervals. If a person faces any eye related issues they are entitled to an eye examination funded by their employer. If the need arises for glasses then your employer is duty bound to pay for a basic pair which is for the purpose of use with a VDU screen only. However, you can make your own choice, but will have to pay for the difference in cost. Quick links: EYE EXAMS EYEWEAR

EyeDream is the perfect alternative to laser surgery, daily contact lenses and specs. orthokeratology corrects your vision while you sleep - all without any need for eyelid tints or awkward glasses! EYEDREAM ORTHO-K Correct your vision while you sleep! EyeDream, a form of orthokeratology (ortho-k), can work to correct your vision while you sleep. Simply remove the custom contact lenses upon waking and enjoy a world of clear, natural vision throughout the day. EyeDream is non-invasive and has transformed the lives of thousands of short- sighted people across the world. HOW DOES EYEDREAM WORK? The cornea plays a key role in creating a sharp optical focus. EyeDream – advanced ortho-k lenses – gently reshape the curvature of the cornea overnight, creating a slightly flatter profile. Upon waking, the slight change (less than half the width of a human hair) in cornea curvature is enough to create clear, sharp vision for the duration of the day. IS EYEDREAM FOR ME? EyeDream is the perfect solution for people who suffer from mild to moderate myopia (short-sightedness) and want clear natural vision all day without the need for specs or lenses. Have considered laser surgery but are concerned with the associated risks. Are involved in sport but find specs and contact lenses restrictive. Are soft contact lens wearers but suffer from discomfort or dry, scratchy eyes. ORTHO-K AND MYOPIA The aim of Myopia Control is to slow down, or halt, the progression of myopia, and this is becoming increasingly effective, especially in children and teenagers. Orthokeratology lenses, such as EyeDream, are playing a key role in Myopia Control all over the world. Recent studies have indicated that myopia develops at a much slower rate, and can even be halted in children fitted with ortho-k. Click here to discover our other Myopia Control options. Q&A How long will my appointment take? Appointment duration can vary from person to person, depending on your appointment type and your individual needs. Please allow at least 30 minutes for your appointment. We pride ourselves on never rushing your appointment and will dedicate as much time as you need during your appointment with us. Whether you are carefully choosing new frames or have any questions any additional questions during your eye test, we are always happy to offer the extra time and care that you deserve. How much does an eye test cost? We offer both private and NHS-funded eye examinations at Taylor Biddle Opticians. Click here to select your local practice and see a full breakdown of appointment types and relevant fees. You may be entitled to a free eye test funded by the NHS. We are committed to the NHS, however the scope of the NHS test does not automatically include further investigations such as OCT & OPTOMAP, it only provides for a basic eye test. Consequently, we do advise patients to agree to extend the scope of the NHS Sight Test to the higher standards provided by our extended eye examination. An additional fee applies for this. Our Private examinations are available for those who are not eligible for NHS funding, or those who wish to upgrade their test in order to take advantage of our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. Am I eligible for a free NHS Sight Test? You're entitled to a free NHS sight test if you: are under 16 are 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education are 60 or over are registered as partially sighted or blind have been diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma are 40 or over and your mother, father, sibling or child has been diagnosed with glaucoma have been advised by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) that you're at risk of glaucoma are a prisoner on leave from prison are eligible for an NHS complex lens voucher – your optician can advise you about your entitlement You're also entitled if you or your partner – including civil partner – receive, or you're under the age of 20 and the dependant of someone receiving: Income Support Income-related Employment and Support Allowance Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Universal Credit and meet the criteria If you're entitled to or named on: a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate (if you do not have a certificate, you can show your award notice), you qualify if you get Child Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits with a disability element (or both), and have income for tax credit purposes of £15,276 or less a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2) Visit the NHS website to read the latest criteria and learn more about funding for eye tests and eyewear - https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/free-nhs-eye-tests-and-optical-vouchers/ Where can I park during my appointment? There is free parking available at both our Compton and Wombourne practices. Is the practice wheelchair accessible? Both of our practices are wheelchair friendly! We are spread across one level at our Wombourne practice and our Compton location features a lift to access to the upper floor. How can I book an appointment? It's easy to book an appointment at one of our practices. You can book by telephone, email or online. Click here to select your local practice and book your next appointment today. Quick links: CONTACT LENSES CHILDRENS EYECARE

Good vision is essential in childhood development and regular eye examinations are the key to good vision. CHILDRENS EYECARE Good vision is essential in childhood development and regular eye examinations are the key to good vision. Research has shown that one in five school children have an undetected eye problem. As 80% of a child’s learning occurs visually, many children cannot see well enough to reach their full potential or enjoy everyday childhood activities as much as they could. A child may not realise if their vision is not clear – they assume the way they see is normal. Therefore regular eye examinations are advised for all children under the age of 16 at least once a year. FIND ANY CONCERNS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE Children should have their first eye examination by the age of four, sooner if any problems are suspected. The earlier a problem is detected, the more effectively it can be treated. It doesn’t matter if your child is too young to talk or read a letter chart, as we use a range of techniques and modern equipment to detect visual problems at any age. Such equipment used is a computerised test chart which allows us to use pictures, numbers, shapes as well as letters to check the child’s vision. We provide free NHS eye tests for all children under 16 and those under 19 and in full time education. If a child is found to need spectacles, a contribution is provided by the NHS. Typical warning signs to look out for: One eye turns in, out, up or down Complains of frequent headaches Frequently rubs eyes or blinks a lot Screws up eyes when reading or watching television Avoids reading, writing or drawing Has difficulty catching a ball Fails to make expected progress at school Develops behavioural or concentration problems at school WHAT IF MY CHILD NEEDS SPECTACLES? We stock a wide range of spectacles specially designed for children’s faces. Many have soft nose pads for extra comfort and sprung hinges to withstand extra wear and tear. Your child might prefer contact lenses. We have a great range of comfortable and easy-to-use contact lenses and our expert team can advise which option is best. Quick links: VISUAL STRESS EYEWEAR WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. “Taylor Biddle Opticians look after three generations in our family with equal care and expertise. Tracey is always available for caring support and we have easy access to appointments. Staff are welcoming and friendly at both practices.” - S.D Claverley -

< Back Tracey Taylor BSc (Hons) MCOptom Tracey graduated in Optometry from Aston University, then worked for independent opticians, and as a locum optician for a few years to gather experience. She met up with Mike Biddle whilst working in the old Wolverhampton Eye Infirmary- and they went into partnership starting Taylor Biddle Opticians in Compton in 1994, followed by the Wombourne practice in 1996. Mike retired from the partnership and Olha joined in 2014 and Hasan in 2021. Tracey was on the Local Optical Committee for over 15 years, becoming co-chair. She has always been keen to embrace new technology and TBO were the first in the Midlands to have retinal cameras, then 3D OCT scanner, and Optomap. She strongly believes that the patient is the centre of the business and this has become the ethos for the whole business. Tracey is a keen tennis player and horse rider, competing in eventing horse trials. She is married to Andrew, a vet, and they have two daughters. They enjoy walking holidays- in fact all sorts of holidays, and seeing friends. Optometrist Director