Helen Pickavance is our Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO), based in the Eye Department at Arrowe Park Hospital. With over 11 years of experience in this role, Helen offers vital support and information to patients at the point of diagnosis. She helps you understand your eye condition and connects you to the right services, ensuring you receive the right support at the right time.

Helen has completed the RNIB Eye Clinic Support Studies course, accredited by City, University of London. She provides a wide range of support for patients, their families, and carers, including:

• Emotional support at the point of diagnosis and beyond.
• Information about eye health and specific conditions.
• Referrals to relevant services (e.g. advocacy, befriending, home visiting).
• Referrals to external agencies (e.g. local visual impairment teams).
• Assistance with the certification and registration of vision impairment (CVI).
• Advice on practical matters (e.g. visual aids, transport options, driving).
• Demonstrations of visual aid equipment.
• Visual awareness training.
• Support and advice for visually impaired patients during hospital stays.

You do not need to be an attending patient of the eye clinic to contact the ECLO for support, but if you have concerns about your vision and require medical advice, please speak to your optician or GP, who will refer you to Ophthalmology for an appointment if appropriate.