Christopher Young, nearing 40 years in optics, says new technology matters — but time, trust and personal care still come first.

A Shepton Mallet optician who is nearing 40 years in the profession says the biggest change in eye care has been technology — but insists patients still want the same thing they always have: time, trust and proper care.

Christopher Young started working at his current practice in October 1986 and bought the business 18 months later. Now approaching four decades in optics, he said the philosophy he began with has never really changed.

"My philosophy at the time was to offer every client the same care and attention that I would give to a close family member," he said. "That philosophy holds true to this day."

Originally from Norfolk, Mr Young said he was drawn to the profession as a child after being short-sighted himself.

"When I went to the optometrist, I was intrigued by all the kit," he said. "I love science, health, interacting with people and being my own boss, so it brought all those things together."

While the basics of eye testing have stayed broadly familiar, he said the equipment behind it has changed dramatically over the years.

advertisement

"The tests don't change too much, but the technology has," he said. "It gives us much better insight and a much better ability to monitor eye health issues."

Mr Young said one of the things that matters most to him is making sure patients do not feel pushed through an appointment.

"I like to ensure patients have enough time to talk everything through — as much time as they feel they need," he said.

That approach also runs through the wider message of the practice, which says it offers a personalised client journey and aims to help people express their personality through their eyewear. Mr Young said that reflects a simple reality: no two patients use their eyes in the same way.

"How people use their eyes is unique to the individual," he said. "We want to try and offer a solution to eye care problems. We want to try and help people feel better about themselves."

He said that can be about far more than just sight correction.

"I love seeing how happy people are," he said. "Being able to see the world properly, and changing their look with new frames, can make them happier and more confident. It can change their quality of life."

Mr Young also said modern life is affecting eye health in new ways, with screen use becoming an increasing factor.

advertisement

"We're seeing more short-sightedness because of screen use, in both adults and children," he said.

To keep pace with those changes, he carries out training throughout the year to stay up to date with both new technology and medical knowledge. He is also one of a small number of practitioners in the South West offering visual therapy.

The practice employs four staff, all of whom have been there for some time, and the building also includes an audiology company able to carry out hearing tests.

Mr Young said the business has long been part of Shepton Mallet High Street and remains closely tied to the local community, supporting events and initiatives including Collett Park Day, the Mid-Somerset Show and carnival.

The practice also offers an eye care plan to help patients spread costs, with Mr Young saying that scheme is now being expanded.

For him, though, the heart of the business remains straightforward.

"We treat our clients as if they are cherished family members," he said.

More local stories

• Shepton Strawberry Line hopes hit by cash blow
• Priddy moorland blaze not believed to be deliberate

Subscribe to the free Shepton Mallet Nub News newsletter Get the biggest Shepton Mallet stories straight to your inbox.