FAQs
You Asked, We Answered
What is a dispensing optician?
A dispensing optician is a registered healthcare professional and plays various roles within an optical practice to help patients.
The core role of a dispensing optician (DO) is to advise on, fit and supply the most appropriate spectacle frames and lenses for each person. What works best for one person won’t be the same for another. The best glasses for you depend on what you want to look at, and the situations in which you are doing it.
Sylv will talk to you about your day-to day life and help you select the best solution for you.
Am I allowed to take my prescription anywhere?
You do not have to buy your glasses at the same place as you have an eye test. In fact, the NHS encourages you to shop around. This is a quote from their website
"You should never feel obliged to buy glasses or redeem an optical voucher from the place where you had your eye test. Shop around for the best value and only buy glasses or contact lenses when you're happy with the product and cost".
Do I need to bring my prescription?
You will need to bring in a current and in date prescription, signed by a qualified optometrist. If you don't have an in date prescription (usually 2 years) then there are many qualified optometrists in the area who will be able to give you a full eye examination.
What's the benefit of using Sylvs Specs?
Sylvia will be able to share her wealth of knowledge to help you search for and decide on the best eyewear solutions for you. You can take all the time you need in a relaxed atmosphere. Bring family or friends with you if you feel more comfortable having their advice. But honestly - she wouldn't let you get specs if they didn't compliment you.
Book an appointment for a 1-1 consultation to have her undivided attention!
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Do you offer the same lenses as the high street opticians?
We offer a wide variety of lenses, all suited to your needs and requirements. A lot of the bigger brands are offered that you will find in high street opticians, including Shamir, Hoya, Nikon, Zeiss, Essilor to name a few. As well as unbranded products to offer you the choice you want.
Do I need an appointment to see you?
It is hugely preferable to book an appointment with Sylvia in her show room in Stourpaine, Blandford so she can spend as much time with you as you need, because she knows that choosing glasses can be a big decision so you need to make sure you're happy. You are welcome to just pop in on the days the shop is open, but it can be busy at times.
You can contact her to book an appointment here.
I've tried varifocals before and didn't get on with them, why should I try again?
Sometimes it happens, a change to varifocals can be so different, it's a bit of a shock to the system... But don't worry, there are different varieties, the frame can make a difference, the way they are fitted, the expectations as well. They're designed for everyday use so Sylvia will make sure they are right for you first!
Can I use a frame I already have?
If you're happy to have new lenses into a frame you already own, then we're happy to do it! Bring the frame in, along with your prescription and we can get them done for you. Just bare in mind that you may be without them for a week or two so bring along another pair you are able to wear in the mean time.
Where can I find you?
If you're coming from Blandford, you'll find Sylv's Specs on the left of the main road through Stourpaine. It's just before The White Horse and opposite the bus stop. If you're coming from Shaftesbury you'll find it on the right, just past The White Horse.
There is free parking outside.
The X3 also stops outside (Blandford to Shaftesbury) https://bustimes.org/services/x3-blandford-forum-shaftesbury
Accessible along the Trailway if you want to tie it in with a walk or cycle.
Why not time it right and pop in the pub for lunch or a coffee.
What type of glasses do you offer?
Sylv's Specs offer a wide range of high-quality frames and lenses. These include full frame, half frame and rimless frames as well as all varieties of lenses, for reading, computer, driving, full varifocals and working varifocals.
Sports spectacles and goggles are also available. Should you wish to see what is available for you simply book an appointment, and based on an initial assessment we can then order in some options for you to view. These include swimming goggles, snooker specs, cycling specs, ski goggles, to name a few.