Scott Watkin joins us

Scott Watkin, Co-National Director for Learning Disabilities at the Department of Health, has joined SeeAbility as an Ambassador for the eye 2 eye Campaign. Watkin, who will leave his Department of Health role at the end of the June, will also work with Mencap as their National Learning Disability Consultant.

Launched in 2005, SeeAbility’s eye 2 eye Campaign is transforming eye care and vision for people who have learning disabilities in the UK. There are about 1 million adults with learning disabilities in the UK and they are 10 times more likely to have serious sight problems than other people.

Watkin who has a learning disability and a visual impairment said;

“In my role at the Department of Health, I worked with Government Ministers to influence policy for people with learning disabilities and make sure that their rights were considered. I am delighted to join SeeAbility and focus on eye health care for these individuals. People with learning disabilities need reasonable adjustments made to eye care services. If we can get eye care right for people who have learning disabilities then we can get it right for everyone”.

Paula Spinks-Chamberlain, Director of the Campaign, said “Scott is an inspiration to people who have learning disabilities. He is so passionate about good, accessible eye care and he understands this from a very personal point of view. We worked closely with Scott during his time at the Department of Health and I welcome him to SeeAbility”.