Two stores, one lifeline - thanks to CPCs

Caroline Angell, Optom Partner in South Shields, says: “When I think about what’s kept me afloat through the toughest times as an optometrist partner, one name comes to mind: my Clinical Performance Consultant. Without her guidance, I honestly don’t know where I’d be today.

Buying two store was a whirlwind

I started out as a pre-reg at a high street competitor, moved to an independent optician, then joined Specsavers. After a stint at a high-end independent, I got a call from a previous partner offering me the chance to buy into the Specsavers business. I never imagined I’d take that leap, but the opportunity was too good to miss. I bought into South Shields in 2021, right after COVID, and in March 2024, I opened a brand-new store. It’s been a whirlwind.

Suddenly, you’re not just testing eyes; you’re managing KPIs, reports, pre-regs, and making decisions that impact the whole team. At one point, we had an eight-week wait for appointments and were failing on standards. I felt like I was drowning.

CPC’s – not all heroes wear capes

That’s when my CPC stepped in. She gave us some home truths about what was going wrong and why. She didn’t sugarcoat it, and that honesty was exactly what we needed. From that moment, she became our first point of contact for everything: clinical queries, commercial decisions, even those moments when I was ready to throw in the towel. She’s talked me off the ledge more times than I can count, reminding me why we do what we do and giving me the confidence to keep going.

When we opened the second store, the challenges multiplied. How many clinics should we run? How do we balance diaries? How do we squeeze in CIPD? She’d been there herself and gave real-life advice that worked. She even delivered a conversion course to partners and optoms, helping us raise our game.

Always has our best interests at heart

The difference? Everything runs smoother now. I understand what ‘good’ looks like, how to push optoms in the right way, and how to hit KPIs without losing sight of patient care. When our pre-reg struggled, she connected us with the right support to get them through. Without CPCs, I’d be completely lost. They give unbiased, honest answers with the best interests of the business, and me, at heart.

Variety, purpose, and making a clear difference

If you’re an optom partner, you know how it feels being confined to the test room. Becoming a CPC brings variety, purpose, and the chance to make a real difference. It’s not just about clinical excellence; it’s about supporting partners, shaping businesses, and helping people thrive. And trust me, we need more of you”.