With more employees spending significant portions of their working day using screens, corporate eyecare has become an important part of a modern employee benefits strategy. It is also an area where HR professionals have legal responsibilities as well as an opportunity to enhance the employee experience.
At EyeMed UK, we work with organisations across a wide range of industries, helping HR teams simplify corporate eyecare while ensuring employees can access the eye care they need. If you are reviewing your current programme or introducing one for the first time, here are some of the key things every HR leader should know.
Corporate eyecare is about more than compliance
Many organisations first introduce corporate eyecare to meet their obligations under the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992.
The regulations require employers to provide an eye test for employees who use display screen equipment and request one. Employers must also contribute towards the cost of special corrective appliances where they are needed solely for display screen work.
While compliance is essential, forward-thinking organisations increasingly view corporate eyecare as part of a wider wellbeing strategy.
Supporting employees’ vision can contribute to greater workplace comfort, demonstrate a commitment to employee wellbeing and reinforce a positive workplace culture.
Every workforce is different
No two organisations have the same requirements when it comes to corporate eyecare.
A business with office-based employees may have different priorities from a construction worker that also needs prescription safety eyewear. Likewise, organisations with hybrid or remote teams often need flexible access to eye care across multiple locations.
That is why EyeMed UK works closely with employers to understand the needs of their workforce before recommending a solution. A tailored approach helps ensure employees receive the right support while keeping administration straightforward for HR teams.
Administration should not create extra work
HR teams already manage a wide range of responsibilities, from recruitment and onboarding to employee relations and wellbeing.
Corporate eyecare should simplify processes rather than create additional administration.
When evaluating providers, consider how easy it is to issue vouchers, manage eligibility and monitor programme activity. Choosing a provider that offers efficient systems and dedicated support can save valuable time throughout the year.
At EyeMed UK, making life easier for employers is just as important as supporting employees. Our approach is designed to reduce administrative pressures while delivering a seamless experience across the entire programme.
Corporate eyecare supports your wellbeing strategy
Today’s employees increasingly expect employers to invest in their health and wellbeing.
Corporate eyecare complements existing wellbeing initiatives by encouraging employees to look after an aspect of their health that can often be neglected.
Regular eye examinations can identify changes in vision and, in some cases, detect signs of underlying eye conditions that require further clinical assessment. Although eye tests are not a substitute for medical care, they can play an important role in maintaining good eye health and encouraging early intervention where appropriate.
When employees feel supported, they are more likely to value the benefits their employer provides.
Flexibility is becoming increasingly important
The workplace continues to evolve.
Many organisations now operate hybrid working models, have employees based across multiple offices or support teams working remotely throughout the UK.
Corporate eyecare programmes need to reflect these changes.
EyeMed UK provides flexible solutions that make it easier for employees to access eye care wherever they are based, helping employers deliver a consistent experience across their workforce.
Choosing a provider with nationwide coverage also helps future proof your programme as your organisation grows or adapts to new ways of working.
Partnership makes the difference
Not all corporate eyecare providers offer the same level of support.
While price will always be a consideration, HR leaders should also look at the quality of service, ease of administration, accessibility for employees and the provider’s experience in supporting organisations like theirs.
At EyeMed UK, we believe corporate eyecare works best when it is built around partnership. We work alongside employers to develop solutions that support compliance, simplify administration and contribute to a healthier workplace.
Looking ahead
Corporate eyecare is no longer simply a legal requirement. It has become an important part of creating a workplace where employees feel supported, valued and equipped to perform at their best.
For HR leaders, choosing the right provider can make all the difference.
EyeMed UK combines expertise in corporate eyecare with flexible programme management, an extensive UK network of optical professionals and a commitment to making eye care simple for both employers and employees.
By taking a proactive approach to corporate eyecare today, HR teams can support healthier workplaces, strengthen their employee benefits offering and build a wellbeing strategy that looks after every aspect of their people’s health.