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Saturday 23 March 2013

Specialist clinic recognised



The Special Assessment Clinic at Cardiff University which provides eye care for people with learning disabilities has been acknowledged at the National Autistic Society’s (NAS) Autism Professional Awards. 
 
Recognised for ‘Clinical Excellence’ in providing specialist eye care services for people with autism and other forms of learning disabilities, the award was presented to them by NAS president, Jane Asher (pictured right), and comedian Kate Fox. 
 
The ceremony was hosted at the Majestic Hotel in Harrogate on March 5.
 
Scooping the award for its innovative approach to eye care, the clinic has replaced traditional letter chart methods with specially adapted tests based on an individual person’s ability to perform a given task. 
 
Andy Millington (pictured left), academic lead and clinical optometrist at the clinic, said: “It is down to the fantastic work of the team at the Cardiff clinic that we have received this award. To be recognised as a national example of clinical excellence is a wonderful achievement and something all staff at the clinic should be truly proud of.
 
“We are delighted to be providing specialist eye care of the highest quality to all patients, including those with autism. And go above and beyond to ensure that patients with the condition get a first-class service that meets the needs.”
 
The clinic is the only one of its kind in the UK, and since opening in 1992 has treated more than 10,000 patients. 
 
Carol Povey, director of the centre for autism at the NAS, added: “The accomplishments of all of the Autism Professional Awards finalists are extremely impressive. These are organisations and individuals who have made a positive contribution to the autism community. The Special Assessment Clinic stood out for its innovative approach to eye care and the impact its work has had on families affected by autism in the UK. The service is a truly inspiring and deserving winner.”

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