The Macular Society’s April 2025 e-newsletter is out. Below are the headlines – you can read the full stories here.
We hope you’re keeping well. With the clocks springing forward and the days finally feeling a little longer, it’s a welcome change to have more light in the evenings – especially for those of us who rely on good lighting to make the most of our vision.
In the coming months, Parliament is set to explore how independent sector providers are affecting NHS eye care – an important discussion that could shape the future of services. Meanwhile, proposed changes to health and disability benefits have been making headlines. We know many of you may have concerns. We’ve broken down what these changes could mean and how they might affect you.
Thank you to Trevor for his powerful story, which highlights the emotional impact of sight loss and the life-changing difference that support can make. His experience is a reminder that no one should have to face macular disease alone.
As always, thank you for being a part of this important community, we truly appreciate your support.
Parliament to explore impact of independent sector on NHS eye care
A new Early Day Motion (EDM) is set to be introduced in Parliament to examine how independent sector providers are affecting NHS eye care, particularly for people with conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
How could the proposed changes to benefits affect you?
The Government has launched a public consultation on major changes to health and disability benefits, as well as employment support. In recent weeks, the proposed changes to health and disability benefits have dominated headlines. But what are the changes, and how might they affect you?
“I used to cry in the shower – there was so much anger”
Counselling has been a “life-changing” experience for Trevor, who hit his lowest point when macular disease began to impact both of his eyes. At first, he noticed only small changes in one eye, but as his sight worsened over the years, the reality of vision loss became increasingly difficult to face.
How to make the most of your optician appointments
From what to ask your opticians, to what you should take with you to an appointment, the latest episode of the My Macular and Me podcast looks at how you can make the most of your optician appointments. Former dispensing optician Claire Ash offers her guidance after more than 10 years working in optometry.
Could plants treat macular disease?
Current treatments for wet AMD are life-changing, but they are not always suitable for everyone. Researchers Professor Dulcie Mulholland and Elisha Griffin have been investigating the possibility of using plant-derived homoisoflavoids as a potential new treatment – possibly as eye drops or tablets. Join us on Tuesday, April 15, at 7PM to hear their latest findings.
