Leightons Thatcham

Audiologist & Hearing Aid Consultant

DR SHEENA RUPARELIA

(BSC MSC DIP CCA AUD RHAD) Sheena has an extensive educational background in science, having gained a BSc in Pharmacology from UCL, and an MSc in Audiological Science before completing her Doctorate in Audiology in 2009. She is registered with the HCPC as a Hearing Aid Dispenser and joined the Leightons Hearing Care team in 2018. With over 12 years’ experience as an Audiological Scientist, Sheena has worked in a number of NHS Teaching Hospitals, undertaking comprehensive hearing and balance assessment and rehabilitation of both adults and children. She has also been involved in presenting clinical audits and writing articles for ENT news. “I believe that patient-centred care is the best approach to really look after an individual and their well-being. Working for Leightons gives me the opportunity to spend time with the patient, complete a comprehensive audiological assessment and create a personalised management plan. I also have access to the latest in hearing technology, allowing me to help my patients live their life to the full.” Outside of work, Sheena enjoys cooking, reading a good book and spending time with her family. She also enjoys keeping fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Optometrist

KATIE BURROWS

Katie has been with the Thatcham team since June 2015 and has very quickly built up a loyal following, with her vast knowledge of visual problems, contact lens fitting and retinal scanning. We receive many comments on how at ease customers feel with Katie and how they received a full explanation that they understood. Outside work, Katie enjoys baking and running, taking part in a very muddy 'Wolf Run' for charity in 2016.

Optometrist

JANET SMITH

Janet has been at Leightons Thatcham since 2012, following the acquisition of Powells Opticians - many Powells customers still return to see her now. She has many years of experience in Optics, and has embraced the recent addition of an OCT scanner with great enthusiasm. Janet enjoys travel and keeping fit when not in practice.

Dispensing Optician

MARK THOMPSON

Mark has been a Dispensing Optician since 2012. He has many years of dispensing experience and a good product knowledge to help you choose your perfect frame options. He strives to provide informative advice on bespoke lenses to suit different visual needs. In his free time he likes to read, cycle and go walking preferably in foreign locations.

Dispensing Optician

MARTYN HATHERLEY

Martyn qualified as a Dispensing Optician in 2021. Following this, he joined an independent optical practice where he built a wide range of knowledge and skills before deciding to join the Leightons family. “I decided to join Leightons because of the fantastic career progression opportunities and internal training they offer. I aspire one day to become a Practice Manager! Within my role, I love having the freedom to spend time with my patients and help them find the perfect option to meet their needs." Outside of work, Martyn is a bit of a foodie and has a passion for cooking and trying out new restaurants. He also loves to spend time with his family and friends, play guitar, and watch the F1.

Optical Hearing Assistant

VICKI HASLER

Vicki joined Leightons Thatcham in August 2016 and is enjoying learning about the different types of contact lenses and spectacles we offer. She is rising to the challenge of multitasking in her role as an optical assistant. At home, Vicki has a menagerie of creatures, including pythons, boa constrictors and a gecko! She also enjoys quad biking in her spare time.

Optical Hearing Assistant

JO FORRISTER

Jo joined the Thatcham branch as an OHA in June 2018 and has very quickly become a valuable part of the team. Jo continues to learn new skills, now able to complete optical & hearing pre-screening tests on patients, with her notable friendly and welcoming manner. She particularly enjoys learning from the optometrists when unusual cases appear in clinic and is keen to expand on her optical knowledge. Jo attended a hearing academy in 2018 and is now able to complete basic troubleshooting and repairs on hearing aids in house, which saves time for patients. Outside of work, Jo enjoys baking, crafts, travel and exploring new places.