YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS If you can't find the answer to your query below, please contact us and we will be happy to advise. 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.

EYE EXAMINATIONS Our eye examination, involves a thorough investigation of not only your vision, but also the co-ordination and ocular health of your eyes. We welcome any questions during the process and will fully explain any findings to you. We offer both private and NHS eye tests for the whole family. Why not upgrade to our extended Eye examination to benefit from our state-of-the-art equipment? EXTENDED EYE EXAMINATION For most patients, we recommend upgrading your test to our extended eye examination, for which there is an additional fee. The fee reflects the high quality of our resources, the extensive cutting edge OCT & Optomap technology used by our optometrists as well ass the extra time required for the comprehensive procedures involved. We are committed to the NHS, however the scope of the NHS test does not automatically include these further investigations, 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. Quick links: OCT & OPTOMAP CHILDRENS EYECARE WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. "I had my first appointment at Taylor Biddle today and it was, by far , the best eye test I have had. All the staff were both professional and friendly and put me at ease on my first visit. As well as a regular eye test I had scans of my eyes done which reassured me that all was ok." - E. Somauroo - 02/2022 via Google

< Back Cheryl Meredith Cheryl has worked at Taylor Biddle Opticians since 2002. She enjoys reading, cooking and a new found hobby - baking! Cheryl likes travelling and her favourite holiday destination is Greece. Optical Assistant

OCT & OPTOMAP Available as part of our extended eye examination, we have invested in in revolutionary diagnostic equipment to detect a number of key eye conditions, such as glaucoma, age related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy. Non-invasive and painless, our state-of-the-art equipment allows our Optometrists to see a larger area of your eye in greater detail. As a result, possible concerns can be identified even earlier. WHAT IS OCT? Ocular Coherence Tomography is an advanced eye scan for people of all ages. Similar to ultrasound, OCT uses light rather than sound waves to illustrate the different layers that make up the back of the eye. This particular 3D OCT unit captures a digital photograph of the surface of the eye at the same time and this can be cross referenced across any areas of concern. The major benefit of this state of the art machine is that it allows your optometrist to see both the back of your eye, and a three dimensional image look beneath the surface of the regular retinal image. Never before, has it been easier to find out the exact state and location of a particular eye condition. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OCT? Your optometrist can review the images on a PC screen and pin point areas of concern by digitally peeling the layers back until they define what it is that they have identified as requiring further investigation. Using this machine, your optometrist can more confidently diagnose, manage and refer you to a specialist for further treatment, should this be required. Striving to provide the best eye care, Taylor Biddle Opticians, your local optometrist can now provide this state of the art diagnostic tool with your eye test, if you so desire. There may be an additional charge for the OCT scan, but the benefits are obvious. The software can automatically detect even the most subtle changes in the retina with every eye test you take. This gives an invaluable on- going record of the health and condition of your eyes. Make sure that when booking your next eye test, you ask about an OCT scan. WHAT IS OPTOMAP? The OPTOMAP is an ultra-widefield digital retinal imaging system. This unique technology captures more than 80% of your retina in one panoramic 200-degree image, while traditional imaging methods typically only show 15% of your retina at one time. An OPTOMAP takes only seconds to perform, is painless and comfortable; nothing touches your eye at any time. It is suitable for everyone including children as vision problems often begin at an early age. You can see your own retina – exactly what your eye care practitioner sees – even in a 3D animation and images are ready to view immediately. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF OPTOMAP? Early signs of disease can be present in the periphery of your retina and remain undetected for a long time when using traditional methods. Early detection enables early treatment, for example, retinal tears can be present in the peripheral part of the retina and are not picked up by a standard sight test or photography. Often the symptoms associated with tears are ‘flashes and/or ‘floaters’. Timely treatment can seal these tears preventing devastating sight loss due to a retinal detachment. It is advisable to have an Optomap every time you have an eye exam. This will ensure you have a digital record of your retinal health on file which can be compared for changes over time. Quick links: EYE EXAMS EYECARE PLANS WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. "Had a very thorough eye test with Taras Lac including using 2 different scanners. I felt very confident that every aspect of my eye health was covered. All the staff are very helpful and professional. My partner recently had issues with his eye and they fitted in an emergency appointment and gave him a very detailed examination." - H. Moore - 11/2021 via Google

CONTACT LENS PLAN Regular contact lens checks are important. Not only is the health of the anterior eye checked, but the suitability of the contact lenses is assessed with regards to the type of lens and to any subtle prescription changes. Our Contact Lens Plans also include an annual sight test which we consider very important. Small changes in the prescription can then be incorporated into the contact lens prescription. Learn more about our popular options below. Customised bundle plans are also available, contact us for more information. Contact Lens Plan (CLP) £9.50 per month What's included? Regular contact lens checks as required. Emergency contact lens checks if required. If prescription changes, unopened boxes maybe exchanged. Emergency replacement lenses where possible supplied. Annual eye examinations. Contact Lens Plan Premium (CLPP) £13.00 per month Has all the CLP benefits, PLUS: Extended Eye Examination Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and/ or Optomap Scans Anterior/ Dry Eye Assessments 15% discount off spectacles and contact lens solutions CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR CONACT LENS PLANS GET IN TOUCH

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 -

EYECARE PLANS We are now offering exclusive Eyecare plans to spread the cost of enhanced eyecare . Currently the standard NHS funded eye exam is the same as it was when it was first implemented in 1948, but technology and expertise have increased a hundredfold since then. Eye conditions that previously would have caused blindness are often treatable, and there is now the ability to detect these problems early with the aid of cutting-edge technology like our OCT & Optomap. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Inclusive Eye examinations As often as needed Extended eye examinations Longer appointment times Value for money Spread the cost monthly, no lump sum Peace of mind Terms & Conditions apply PRIVATE EYE EXAMINATION PLAN (PEEP) Our PEEP plan provides excellent value for money and peace of mind. For a monthly fee of just £6.50, it will cover all of your professional charges, see you as often as required, and not at strictly defined time intervals as laid out by the NHS. You will be booked for a longer appointment so that there is more time to discuss your requirements and to carry out any further tests as needed so that we can provide the best possible care for you. WHATS INCLUDED? £8.50 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30’s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment TAYLOR BIDDLE OPTICIANS EYECARE PLAN (TBO ECP) This Premium Plan covers the extended eye examination and all the benefits included in PEEP, but also gives a greater value for spectacle wearers with 25% discount on all eyewear and a two year accidental damage guarantee for an additional peace of mind. £14 PER MONTH Comprehensive eye examination Under 30s eye exam Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT scan) Daytona Optomap Ultra Wide View scan Pressures Check Anterior eye assessment Private Diabetic Assessment Consultant requested fields test plus report Consultant requested retinal scans plus report 25% discount off spectacles and lenses 15% discount off all products and solutions (excluding contact lenses). A guarantee on new spectacles for two years (small excess applies) Minimum contract 18 months, and then 6 months after the latest purchase. WHATS INCLUDED? CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR EYECARE PLANS GET IN TOUCH Quick links: OCT & OPTOMAP EYEWEAR

WHAT IS VISUAL STRESS? Visual Stress is a visual processing disorder due to sensitivity to light and a believed hyper- excitability of visual brain. Visual Stress is said to affect 20% of the population – 13 million people in UK. It is not the same as dyslexia but it affects about 40% of dyslexics. As humans we are adapted to view natural images. Imagine a picture of a lake and mountains, beach, garden – is that comfortable to look at? Now imagine a stripy black and white shirt or a zebra – is that comfortable? English text is made of striped patterns which are mainly written in black on white paper, to our brain look like stripes – not natural! WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF VISUAL STRESS? Print blurs or goes out of focus Letters move, shimmer or shake Patterns like ‘rivers’ or ‘worms’ appearing when reading black on white text Glare from page or VDU Coloured halos around words Poor tracking, losing place when reading. Sore , watery eyes and headaches when reading VISUAL STRESS FULL ASSESSMENT Full eye examination – 1 hour, payable in advance. In-depth binocular vision investigation. Reading speed test Tracking Near focussing Pattern glare test Colorimetry assessment. VISUAL STRESS PROGRAMME FEES One hour full assessment £195 Follow-up appointments £95 VISUAL STRESS THERAPY PROGRAMME FOR SCHOOL CHILDREN Minimum period of 18 months. Direct debit £16 per month. Full assessment at a discounted rate of £80. Regular follow-up checks (3 to 6 months or as required). 25% off lenses (free lenses supplied if eligible for an NHS voucher). 50% off specialised tint. 50% off spare spectacles. Accidental damage cover (small excess may apply). 25% off non-NHS frames. REFERRAL VISUAL STRESS ASSESSMENT Includes Optomap imaging. 50% discount off all professional fees. 25% off all frames, lenses and tints. Please note – Assessments require 24 hours cancellation notice, or the advanced fee is forfeited. HOW CAN WE HELP? COLOURED FILTERS Filters can reduce discomfort by reducing contrast and filtering out a particular wavelength of light that causes the neurons to fire unnecessarily. But it has to be correct colour, saturation and brightness. A person may be sensitive to a particular wavelength of light and this can explain why a coloured tint can stabilize the visual brain. BINOCULAR VISION & READING Lot of symptoms of visual stress are the same as if the eyes have binocular vision insufficiency so do not work together properly. This could be due to eye muscles weakness so it’s VERY important to have full eye test and detailed binocular vision assessment. Unstable binocular vision can cause fixation to swap between eyes. This can be addressed with prescription lenses that stabilize the vision at near. Then we can proceed to Colorimetry assessment which goes through 6000 colour combinations to find the correct tint. Quick links: CHILDRENS EYECARE EYEWEAR WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAY.. "Can't recommend Taylor Biddle enough. Taras puts my daughter at ease during her visual stress tests. Staff are very welcoming and professional. Nothing is too much trouble." - J. Prosser - 02/2022 via Google

CONTACT US Select your local practice below to see store details COMPTON 39 Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton, WV6 8AF ADDRESS GET IN TOUCH VIEW STORE DETAILS Tel: 01902 750325 WOMBOURNE 34, Windmill Bank, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, WV5 9JD ADDRESS GET IN TOUCH VIEW STORE DETAILS Tel: 01902 895909

< Back Sophie Rogers Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support Sophie has been with the Taylor Biddle team since 2016 and is passionate about providing highest standards of customer service. Due to her passion for the career, in 2020 she completed the Level 2 Diploma in Optical Support. She loves animals and in her spare time volunteers at a dog training club and also enjoys cooking and walking her dogs. Optical Dispenser

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

TAYLOR BIDDLE WOMBOURNE 34, Windmill Bank, Wombourne, Wolverhampton, WV5 9JD 01902 895909 BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT Our Service is as Special as Your Eyes BOOK AN APPOINTMENT Monday - Friday: 9:00 - 5:30 Saturday: 9:00 - 5:00 Sunday: Closed OUR PRACTICE We are located In Wombourne on the corner of Windmill Bank and Planks Lane where we are next door to SPAR. Our practice is accessible via bus routes 15 and 16. Patient parking is available in front of the building Our practice is wheelchair accessible WELCOME TO WOMBOURNE SEND US A MESSAGE Need a little help or just have a question? Fill in the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as we can. Why not check our FAQs page for popular patient queries. If you still can't find what you need, we will be happy to help. Full Name Phone Email Write a message SEND Thank you for your message, we'll get back to you as soon as we can OUR DEDICATED TEAM Eye care is a passion at Taylor Biddle. We take pride in our highly skilled, knowledgeable team who stay with us for many years. We're dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for all our patients, with friendly service that is second-to none! MEET THE TEAM