Leightons Lewes

Branch Manager & Dispensing Optician

DANUTA V FIDYKA FBDO

Danuta began her career in optics working within an independent practice where she assisted in the day-to-day running of the branch. In 2015 she then went on to complete a Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing before returning to her practice, where she took on the position of manager. Following a six-month break from the optical world, Danuta decided to join the Leightons family. “After some time out of practice, I joined Leightons to reconnect with the world of optics! I love working with my patients and continuing to develop myself as a healthcare practitioner. One of my favourite parts of the role is that I can always learn something new and continue to expand my skill set. Outside of work, I love to unwind with some knitting, baking or reading.”

Rebecca is the Assistant Branch Manager at Leightons Lewes.

Hearing Aid Audiologist

ANITA VAN DER COLFF

Since qualifying as an audiologist, much of Anita’s experience has been with NHS provision. She worked extensively with a charitable organisation, supporting individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing, which she found incredibly rewarding. The organisation had a contract with the NHS to provide audiology services, but also offered a range of other support services, delivering complete care. Anita was drawn to Leightons by their ethos of patient-centred care, as it reflected the focus of all her previous experience. She enjoys the fact that she can now spend more time with patients due to longer appointment times, allowing her the opportunity to build a greater understanding of each individual’s needs and requirements. She also loves the range of up-to-date hearing aid technology that is available to cater to patient needs. Outside work, Anita has found that the 2020 lockdown really highlighted the value of friendship and being in the same room as other people for her. Some of her favourite activities involve meeting up with friends, particularly for Cook Club and Book Club.

Audiologist

LOUISE HILL-HOTTINGER (RHAD, MBSHAA, BSC)

Louise was inspired to train as an audiologist after accompanying her mother’s audiology appointments. Her mother’s experiences have given Louise a first-hand insight into hearing loss and the difficulties many people face. Louise recently joined Leightons after working as an NHS Hearing Aid Audiologist. She was particularly drawn to the Leightons approach, which puts each patient at the centre of hearing care, where time is spent providing an excellent comprehensive ear healthcare and audiological service. In her spare time, Louise enjoys walking with friends and family on the South Downs, travel and visiting art galleries and museums.

Principal Optometrist

CLAIRE FREEMAN MSC

Claire is an Optometrist at Spectrum Eyecare Lewes.

Optometrist

HEENA BHARADIA MSC

Heena is an Optometrist at Spectrum Eyecare Lewes.

"From my previous background studying Fine Art, I have an enjoyment for diligent methods of working. Previous employment has been in Adult Social Care and Aviation as a reablement support worker and long haul cabin crew, whereby I have always thrived working with people. As a WRC I love to help new and current patients, reassure and understand their individual needs. Every day there is success and a smile. From my first engagement with Leightons, I have felt truly welcome. I have a great team, technology and resources to help patients safely and efficiently remove wax and start their hearing journey. Everyone is valued - I love my job and working for Leightons, an independent family business. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy being active - running, swimming and playing stoolball. I enjoy travelling, particularly visiting Cornwall with my friends and family. I have a passion for art and walking and enjoy photographing nature at my allotment, especially the sunflowers."

Before joining the Leightons family as an Optical Hearing Assistant, Annabelle had a successful career in retail where she worked her way up to the role of Supervisor with her customer-focused approach. Annabelle loves life at Leightons because… “As Leightons is a family business, I knew it was the perfect place for me to learn and further my career in. I love giving all of our patients the very best experience and level of service that Leightons are renowned for.” Outside of work Annabelle enjoys… Going for walks with her dog, travelling, swimming and getting stuck into a good book.