Glasses Direct Strives to Make Eye Care More Affordable Amid Cost of Living Crisis

Since late 2021, the prices for many essential goods in the UK have been increasing faster than household incomes. The results of this cost of living crisis are far-reaching. As we discussed in a previous Global Brands article, spending on utilities grew to 32.9% in 2022 alone. This has forced many Brits to prioritise essential spending, leading to more discerning shopping habits. Unfortunately, this financial squeeze has extended to health and eye care, where the pressure to economise is particularly pronounced. 

Citing data from the Association of Optometrists (AOP), the Evening Standard reports that nearly a third of Brits are resorting to wearing their friends’ and family’s glasses to avoid spending more money. Meanwhile, 36% of people across all ages are wearing out-of-date prescriptions, and 19% are using glasses they’ve had to self-repair. In this challenging landscape, ensuring access to affordable eye care is more critical than ever. One company striving to do so is Glasses Direct.

How Glasses Direct is making eye care more accessible

Since its establishment in 2004, Glasses Direct has not strayed from its mission to offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to purchasing eyeglasses from brick-and-mortar stores. In the UK, high street opticians are notorious for inflating eyewear prices to boost profit margins. On average, a pair of eyeglasses from these chains sets buyers back by as much as £120, according to The Standard.

Whereas, Glasses Direct’s purely Internet-based retail model has allowed them to bring down overhead costs and pass savings on to customers. Glasses Direct’s array of glasses boasts affordable options from its in-house line as well as brands like London Retro and HART. Many frames from these labels are on constant promotions, such as 2-for-1 bundle deals for less than half the average price. The company also frequently provides discount codes and has interest-free instalment payment schemes, further lowering the cost barrier for consumers.

Advocacies and government efforts to lower eye care costs

Beyond individual efforts, there are broader initiatives aimed at addressing the UK’s eye health needs during this cost of living crisis. For example, the AOP has been vocal about the need for government support. In 2022, the organisation began calling for a 12.5% increase to the NHS optical voucher in order to help those most in need access proper eye care. Currently, the amount beneficiaries can get towards eye care costs from the NHS varies between £39.90 and £219.80, depending on prescription and lens strength. A 12.5% uplift to the fee would add around £5 to the value of the NHS optical voucher.

Moreover, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is providing additional financial assistance to individuals over State Pension age who are experiencing sight loss or have certain degenerative eye conditions. This support includes higher payments through benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Attendance Allowance, which can help cover the costs associated with eye care and related needs.

Eye care, a fundamental aspect of overall health, has not been immune to the cost of living crisis. However, through innovative solutions from companies like Glasses Direct and advocacy from organisations like the AOP, strides are being made to ensure that affordable eye care remains accessible to all. With continued support and concerted efforts, it is possible to alleviate some of the financial burdens and safeguard the health of the UK population during these challenging times.

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