Announcement Due to technical issues, we are currently unable to offer online eyecare. We are sorry for any inconvenience this may cause and are working with another provider to resolve as soon as possible. In the meantime, a temporary reimbursement process has been put in place. All requests should now be made via the google form below.
Eyecare
The University offers free eye tests to all staff who regularly use Display Screen Equipment.
Staff can request a free eye test every two years and also request a further voucher towards the cost of glasses, if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Please ensure that you read the eligibility criteria, the eyecare flowchart, and frequently asked questions prior to submitting a request.
We are currently working with a new provider to provide access to digital vouchers and will keep colleagues updated as to progress.
What is Display Screen Equipment?
Also referred to as Visual Display Units, these are devices or equipment that have an alphanumeric or graphic display screen, including computer screens, laptops and touch screens.
To be eligible for free eye tests, staff must use this equipment as a significant part of their normal work.
Eligibility
Free eye tests can be requested if the following criteria apply:
Regular use of digital screen equipment at work such as daily usage for continuous periods of an hour or more.
Completion of the Oxford Brookes’ DSE user training and DSE assessment.
Free eyecare has not been provided by Brookes within the last 24 months.
Staff have not resigned prior to the date of the eye test.
Staff are not already in receipt of free eyecare such as via the NHS.
Please ensure that you have read the eyecare flowchart to confirm that you are eligible.
By submitting a request for reimbursement, you are confirming that you agree to the terms and conditions of this scheme, including refunding any cost to Oxford Brookes, should you not meet the eligibility criteria.
How do I request an eye test?
Once you have visited your chosen Optician and paid for a eyecare, please complete the Eyecare Request Form.
This form will ask you to confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria and also to upload an itemised receipt.
Our Operations and Payroll teams will process your request, and you will receive reimbursement in next month’s payslip.
What if my eye test costs more than £26.95?
Brookes will reimburse up to £26.95 towards the cost of an eye test. Any additional or enhanced tests are not covered by the scheme and will need to be funded by staff.
My optician has advised that I need glasses/a new prescription. Will Oxford Brookes fund this as well?
As per DSE legislation, if your optician has advised glasses specifically for the purpose of DSE activities at work, Oxford Brookes will reimburse up to £75 towards the cost of a pair of glasses and standard lenses.
If your optician has advised glasses for general use including reading, distance, bifocal and varifocal lenses, the cost of this will need to be self-funded.
Please ensure you have referred to the eyecare flowchart to confirm that you are eligible for funded glasses.
Reimbursement towards the cost of glasses can also be claimed via the Eyecare Request Form alongside eye tests. Please ensure that you are able to upload confirmation from your Optician that your glasses are specifically for DSE work.
Are there any other savings available to help fund the cost of glasses?
The MyLifestyle Hub discount page provides a variety of savings and is regularly updated with new offers, which may include discounts on glasses.
Some staff may also be eligible for free NHS eyecare.
If you are unsure whether you are eligible to claim a voucher for eyecare, please contact the People Operations Team at pdteam-operations@brookes.ac.uk.