A STOURBRIDGE opticians is taking part in a pilot NHS scheme in a bid to help promote healthy living across Dudley.

Docker and Wilson Opticians, in High Street, has recently been accredited as a ‘healthy living opticians’ which will see the practice provide NHS health checks, smoking cessation advice and health promotion.

As well as eye examinations, the opticians will also provide smoking cessation, weight management and alcohol intervention services.

Councillor Rachel Harris, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “Healthy living opticians are about more than just looking after your eye health. They want to help every customer improve and maintain their general health.

“As opticians often see people who don’t access any other health services, they are ideally placed in local communities where they are accessible to everyone.”

As of Thursday (November 12), Docker and Wilson Opticians will also be carrying out NHS health checks.

Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Steve Waltho, said: “All opticians provide a valuable service, but healthy living opticians will provide a much broader range of support and expert advice, with each member of the team being proactive in supporting the health and wellbeing of their customers.”

Currently 10 practices across Dudley borough are being set up as healthy living opticians, each will be recognised by a quality mark, and all staff will undergo a rigorous training programme.