Free eye examinations for staff
All staff can book a free eye examination through the University of Leeds EyeMed Gateway. This service provides access to a wide network of partner opticians, allowing colleagues to visit a provider in a location most convenient to them.
Please note:
- The EyeMed Gateway replaces the University’s previous contract with Bayfields opticians. Staff should only make an appointment with Bayfields if there is a branch available on the EyeMed Gateway list of providers.
- The University is unable to cover the expenses of staff attending eye examinations at opticians which are not listed on the EyeMed Gateway list of providers.
- Eyecare vouchers are valid for 90 days from the date of issue. As the University is automatically charged for any voucher issued, replacements for expired vouchers are not possible.
- Before using the service please ensure your online Display Screen Equipment (DSE) training is up to date.
Assistance and accessibility help
If the online Gateway form isn’t usable for you, please contact the EyeMed UK Customer Service Team who can make arrangements on your behalf. You can email the Customer Service Team at cs@eyecareplans.co.uk or call them on 0844 800 4028 (please note this is a business rate number and call charges may vary depending on your phone company).
Applying for your eyecare voucher
- Log onto the University of Leeds EyeMed Gateway and complete your staff details.
- Once signed in, start your application by choosing your eyecare voucher.
- Staff wishing to book a standard eye examination should select Office.
- Staff requiring prescription safety eyewear should select Protect.
- From the searchable map/list of providers, select which optician you wish to visit.
- Complete your contact details. Please note you must use your University email address rather than a personal account.
- Select how you would like to receive your eyecare voucher (by text or email).
- Once submitted, your request will be processed and you will shortly receive your voucher for a free eye examination via the method you chose.
Eyecare vouchers can only be used at the providers listed on the Gateway. Staff requiring prescription safety eyewear who are unable to find a Gateway optician offering this service within a reasonable travel distance should contact safety@leeds.ac.uk.
Booking your eye examination
Your eyecare voucher will display the booking details for you to schedule an appointment with your chosen optician. Take your voucher along to your appointment and staff will guide you through the rest of the process – your eye examination and, if required, advice on choosing eyewear.
Staff benefits
- All staff (DSE and non-DSE users) are entitled to the free, standard eye examination.
- Paid time off to attend appointments during work hours is supported.
- Staff requiring prescription glasses specifically for carrying out DSE work can access free, standard frames or a £50 contribution towards more expensive frames and lenses when spending over £75.
Frequenty asked questions
Do partner opticians provide the same service?
Our network includes a range of independent opticians and optical retailers. Services may vary across our partners but all provide – as a minimum – a standard, full eye examination.
What is included in a standard eye examination?
Your standard eye examination will involve an optometrist carrying out a series of checks to assess your vision and the overall health of your eyes.
Some providers offer advanced eye testing ie Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) scans. These are not routinely included in a standard eye examination. The cost of these, and any additional services, will need to be met by the individual.
I need glasses for general use – am I entitled to a University contribution?
Free, standard frames or a £50 contribution towards more expensive frames are only available to staff who require prescription eyewear for the sole purpose of DSE work. The University will not cover the costs of spectacles for general use or if an individual’s ordinary prescription glasses are suitable for DSE use.
Where can I find my employee number?
Details of your employee number can be found on your payslip or by logging into HR Self Service Information.
What if I can’t attend any of the partner opticians listed?
Staff who cannot reasonably travel to any optician listed on the Gateway should contact safety@leeds.ac.uk to discuss the options available.
How often can I book an eye examination?
You can apply for an eyecare voucher every two years, or sooner if you feel your eyesight has changed. However if less than a year has passed since receiving your last voucher, you may need to be referred to your faculty/service for specific authorisation.