Collaborating for better vision care: HEIW hosts regional peer review for low vision practitioners in Cwm Taf Morgannwg
(published 31 October 2025)
Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) is set to host a regional peer review event that brings together eye care professionals from across Cwm Taf Morgannwg to strengthen collaboration and improve care for people living with sight loss.
The Low Vision Multi-Disciplinary Peer Review Event will take place on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, at 6pm at Ty Dysgu, Cefn Coed, Nantgarw (CF15 7QQ). The session will unite optometrists providing low vision 3 pathways, Vision Rehabilitation Specialists (VRS), and Qualified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (QTVIs) to share experiences, discuss real-world cases, and explore opportunities for closer integration across services.
This collaborative initiative supports the vision of A Healthier Wales and the Future Approach for Optometry Services, both of which emphasise delivering high-quality, integrated eye care closer to home. By fostering stronger links between primary care optometry, rehabilitation, and education professionals, the event aims to ensure that people with sight loss are supported holistically within their local communities.
Rukaiya Anwar, All Wales Optometric Training Lead for Low Vision, said: “We’re delighted to bring the HEIW Health and Social Care Peer Review on Low Vision to Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board. This event is a valuable opportunity for professionals to share insights, strengthen collaboration, and develop a deeper understanding of how we can best support people living with sight loss. Our aim is to bridge gaps between services, promote joined-up working, and showcase best practice and innovation across the low vision community.”
Building Stronger Connections Across Services
The peer review will provide a forum for professionals to discuss case-based examples and identify ways to streamline referral pathways and promote consistent access to support. Participants will explore how to:
- Strengthen understanding between clinical, rehabilitation, and educational services.
- Promote consistent, early intervention pathways for those living with sight loss.
- Support NHS Wales’ commitment to delivering safe, effective, and accessible eye care in community settings.
The event aligns closely with ongoing optometry contract reform, which prioritises the expansion of enhanced community-based services. The low vision service remains a key focus area, empowering qualified optometrists to assess, manage, and support patients in primary care - reducing unnecessary referrals into hospital eye clinics.
A Growing Network of Shared Learning
Since its launch in 2024, the HEIW peer review series has received excellent feedback from participants who praised the opportunity to connect across health, education, and social care sectors. Following the Cwm Taf Morgannwg session, additional events are planned in Hywel Dda, Swansea Bay, and Powys in early 2026, ensuring all Health Boards across Wales can take part.
Practitioners attending the event will earn 3 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) peer review points and gain the chance to share experiences, exchange resources, and build confidence in navigating both local and national support systems.
👉 To register,
Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) is set to host a regional peer review event that brings together eye care professionals from across Cwm Taf Morgannwg to strengthen collaboration and improve care for people living with sight loss.
The Low Vision Multi-Disciplinary Peer Review Event will take place on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, at 6pm at Ty Dysgu, Cefn Coed, Nantgarw (CF15 7QQ). The session will unite optometrists providing low vision 3 pathways, Vision Rehabilitation Specialists (VRS), and Qualified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (QTVIs) to share experiences, discuss real-world cases, and explore opportunities for closer integration across services.
This collaborative initiative supports the vision of A Healthier Wales and the Future Approach for Optometry Services, both of which emphasise delivering high-quality, integrated eye care closer to home. By fostering stronger links between primary care optometry, rehabilitation, and education professionals, the event aims to ensure that people with sight loss are supported holistically within their local communities.
Rukaiya Anwar, All Wales Optometric Training Lead for Low Vision, said: “We’re delighted to bring the HEIW Health and Social Care Peer Review on Low Vision to Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board. This event is a valuable opportunity for professionals to share insights, strengthen collaboration, and develop a deeper understanding of how we can best support people living with sight loss. Our aim is to bridge gaps between services, promote joined-up working, and showcase best practice and innovation across the low vision community.”
Building Stronger Connections Across Services
The peer review will provide a forum for professionals to discuss case-based examples and identify ways to streamline referral pathways and promote consistent access to support. Participants will explore how to:
- Strengthen understanding between clinical, rehabilitation, and educational services.
- Promote consistent, early intervention pathways for those living with sight loss.
- Support NHS Wales’ commitment to delivering safe, effective, and accessible eye care in community settings.
The event aligns closely with ongoing optometry contract reform, which prioritises the expansion of enhanced community-based services. The low vision service remains a key focus area, empowering qualified optometrists to assess, manage, and support patients in primary care - reducing unnecessary referrals into hospital eye clinics.
A Growing Network of Shared Learning
Since its launch in 2024, the HEIW peer review series has received excellent feedback from participants who praised the opportunity to connect across health, education, and social care sectors. Following the Cwm Taf Morgannwg session, additional events are planned in Hywel Dda, Swansea Bay, and Powys in early 2026, ensuring all Health Boards across Wales can take part.
Practitioners attending the event will earn 3 Continuing Professional Development (CPD) peer review points and gain the chance to share experiences, exchange resources, and build confidence in navigating both local and national support systems.
👉 To register, book a place