The Wiseman Fund, established to encourage education and research in all aspects of optics, continues to support the most deserving of students. Established in 1957 as the Max Wiseman Memorial Fund in memory of Max Wiseman, founder of a successful UK optical manufacturing business, the charity continues to flourish. Here's what we do:
Annual Prizes are awarded each year to the Optical Technician of the Year who gains the best results in the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers’ optical manufacturing examinations.
Student Hardship Awards are made for deserving optometry students and dispensing opticians in their second or subsequent years of study who face exceptional financial difficulties in progressing their studies. References from Tutors and Head of Departments are needed before any application is considered.
Equipment Purchase Awards are considered by the trustees for financial assistance. Essential instruments such as ophthalmoscopes, retinoscopes, trials frames etc. may be assisted for the most deserving students.
|
Research Awards for studies that will further the development of optics in the UK are a key focus for the Fund. Post doctorial research work into Low Vision Aids and “Improving The Quality of Life for Older People” has been a recent focus for the charity.
Travel Awards enable students, qualified optometrists or dispensing opticians to enhance their knowledge and gain from field trips and conferences, especially those in support of overseas optical charities.
|
Optical Workers' Benevolent Fund (OWBF)
Ill health, issues of aging and genuine problems faced by those who work within manufacturing optics may be eased by a grant from the Optical Workers’ Benevolent Fund, which evolved from the Wiseman Trust fifteen years ago.
Since then the charity has helped those who have suffered from heart attacks, needed help with mobility aids and assistance with home decoration. Much needed respite breaks for long term carers are also a source of support offered by the OWBF.
|
"At any one time we have thousands of people working in all branches of manufacturing optics. There are people facing issues who need support. We hear about some distressing cases of hardship faced by those who have worked within optical manufacturing but who do not qualify for other assistance. We aim to help those who have worked loyally to further our industry”. Professor Mo Jalie, Trustee.
|