Leightons Hempstead Valley

Branch Manager & Dispensing Optician

JAYNE GAFFIN

Jayne started her optical journey in 2009, after seeking a career change. She started working part-time in her local practice, progressing to branch manager before joining Leightons in Hempstead Valley in 2020. In October 2020, Jayne qualified as a Dispensing Optician after studying a Fellowship Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing at ABDO College. The three year distance learning course is industry-recognised. Jayne enjoys all forms of dispensing, especially helping children choose the correct eyewear for them. As she has worn glasses since childhood, she understands the importance of choosing something that the child is happy to wear and fits comfortably, as it can be an exciting and difficult time for both the child and their parent/guardian. Jayne has been a fellow of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians since qualifying, and also holds qualifications in British Sign Language, which allows her to offer a level of communication for patients that can sometimes feel isolated by possible communication barriers.

Hearing Aid Audiologist

ORMSBY WILLIAMS (RHAD BA BSHAA)

Ormsby has had a successful career in hearing care for more than 12 years. Despite taking an unconventional route into Audiology through a background in marketing, his approach has been universally based on a firm commitment to customer care. As a former mentor once said to him, “you have two ears, one mouth – use them in that order!”. He qualified in September 2005 as an Hearing Aid Audiologist. In September 2017, Ormsby joined Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care in Hempstead Valley. He has a keen interest in the latest hearing technology, as it allows him to push the boundaries and give him a greater opportunity to help his patients. He can also provide wax removal services and tinnitus consultations. Ormsby is a member of the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists and the Health and Care Professions Council.

Optometrist

JENNIFER WILSON

Jennifer has worn spectacles and contact lenses from an early age. This drew her towards optometry, as she always enjoyed her experiences when visiting her opticians. She started to work in the multiple sector in 2004, studying to become an optician. In 2008, Jennifer qualified as an Optometrist, after studying at Cardiff University. The latest technology we have in branch allows Jennifer to provide quality clinical care at all times. She is able to take the time needed with each patient to address their needs and concerns, while educating them about their eye health. Jennifer is accredited to carry out specialised examinations for those people who suffer with visual stress. "Visual Stress" is where processing of text is atypical. This can lead to reading difficulties, headaches and other visual problems when reading text.

Dispensing Optician

NICOLA PRIESTLEY

As Nicola is a glasses and contact lens wearer herself, she showed an interest in Optics from an early age. In 2002 she joined Leightons in Hempstead Valley, and started her journey as an Optical & Hearing Assistant, building her knowledge of the optical industry through the years. In 2008, Nicola embarked on a three year distance learning course at ABDO College, while also studying a degree, both in Ophthalmic Dispensing, at Canterbury Christchurch University. Nicola qualified in 2011 to become a Dispensing Optician. Nicola uses her experience and knowledge to help you select the perfect eyewear, and will endeavour to make you feel at ease. She enjoys learning about new products, enabling her to always provide the best customer care. Since qualifying, Nicola has become a fellow of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians.

Optical Hearing Assistant

ANITA

Anita’s journey within optics started in 2010, after she noticed an advert at her local opticians. She applied for the part time position as she was a patient there already and found her experiences enjoyable and very interesting. In 2017, Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care acquired Bowden & Lowe, meaning Anita transferred to the Hempstead Valley branch. Then in 2018, she was offered a full time position within the branch, which she was delighted to accept. She is an always-present face, and still enjoys seeing regular customers from Bowden & Lowe. A big part of Anita’s position is pre-examination tests, which she carries out with maximum professionalism. “I’m fascinated by how much we can tell about someone's health, just by looking into their eyes. The equipment we have in branch is amazing, and I really enjoy learning about them with our opticians.”

Optical Hearing Assistant

TRACEY DEADFIELD

Tracey started working at Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care in 2014. As a glasses and contact lens wearer herself, she has always found Optics fascinating, and wanted to be part of a team that are passionate about helping people. Tracey loves being able to provide the best possible care to all patients, and particularly enjoys using the latest technology in the branch.