I've found what I've been looking for

Sophie’s career in optics didn’t follow a straight path. Starting as an Optical Assistant Apprentice with no prior experience, she explored both retail and clinical settings before finding her calling in domiciliary care. Today, she supports patients in their own homes; building meaningful connections and delivering truly personalised care. Her story is one of curiosity, growth, and discovering where she could make the biggest difference.

The beginning

“I didn’t start out in optics at all. I actually began as an apprentice hairdresser. At the time, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, I just knew I wanted to work and learn. When COVID hit, it gave me the chance to step back and think about what I wanted from a career. I realised I wanted something with progression, and an apprenticeship felt like the right route.

After doing a lot of research, I came across Specsavers and their customer service apprenticeship. With my people-focused personality, it felt like a good fit, even though I had no knowledge of optics. I went into it completely fresh and was instantly interested. I mainly worked in the contact lens department, and everything was new to me. I genuinely had a lot of fun learning.

As my apprenticeship came to an end, I started to feel a bit stuck in one area. I wanted to explore more of optics, but in a busy store it could be hard to get that one-to-one patient time. I touched on the shop floor and dispensing, but I was ready for a new challenge.

I then moved away from Specsavers into a more clinical setting within optical healthcare. It was completely different, more medical, fast-paced and technical. I learned new skills and got involved in advanced procedures, which pushed me out of my comfort zone.

But over time, I realised something was missing. The pace meant patient interactions could feel quite transactional, and I didn’t always have time to connect properly. The moments where I could spend more time with patients stood out most, and I knew I needed another change.

Why domiciliary

When I started thinking about my next step, I didn’t specifically set out to return to Specsavers. I didn’t know much about domiciliary roles or how they worked. I was weighing up my options when the role came up, and it felt worth exploring.

I applied, did my research, and during the interview I just knew it was right for me.

The biggest difference was the time I could spend with each patient. Instead of seeing large volumes each day, I could see around 10 to 12 and spend up to 45 minutes or more with each person. The idea of being out on the road rather than in one place also really appealed. It felt freeing.

When I started, I split my time before moving fully into domiciliary. I was shadowed, supported, and asked for extra one-to-one training to build my confidence. I felt really looked after and started to see how my skills transferred.

Being out on the road was daunting at first, but I quickly realised I wasn’t on my own. The support network is incredible, whether that’s group chats or a quick phone call. Someone is always there.

Misconceptions and realities

Before starting, I had a limited idea of how domiciliary worked. I knew optical assistants partnered with optometrists when on visits, but I couldn’t picture how visits would run independently at times. But it does work, and the flexibility is a big benefit.

That said, the transition wasn’t easy. There’s a lot to learn with new systems, admin, planning routes and navigating new areas. It can feel overwhelming at first, and you do have to build confidence quickly.

The patient interaction though is exactly what I’d hoped for. In store, you’re balancing multiple patients at once. In domiciliary, you’re stepping into someone’s home and their life. Many patients are vulnerable, and for some, you might be the only person they see that day.

You build real relationships. You slow down and listen. I remember one patient who was bedbound and living with advanced sight loss. Glasses wouldn’t improve her vision, but when we introduced magnification support, the difference it made was incredible. Moments like that remind you why this role matters.

It can be emotional at times. You can’t always fix everything, but giving someone your time and attention can mean so much.

Finding the right fit

I can honestly say I’ve found what I was looking for. Domiciliary has challenged me, but it’s also helped me grow in confidence. I used to stay in my comfort zone, but this role pushed me beyond that. Now, this is my comfort zone.

It’s not the easiest path in optics, but for me, it’s the most rewarding.

Advice

If you’re early in your career and unsure what direction to take, keep an open mind.

Domiciliary might not be the first option you think of, but it offers something truly unique. It’s challenging, but also incredibly impactful. You’re there for patients who can’t access care any other way, and that gives the role real purpose.

You don’t need to have everything figured out. I started with no optics knowledge, and with the time you can spend with patients and the support around you, there’s so much opportunity to grow.

You’re never truly on your own in this role, even when you’re out on the road”.