Eye Care Liaison Officers (ECLOs)
You can get help with any condition affecting your sight from an Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO).
What is an ECLO?
ECLOs provide information, emotional support and advice if you have a condition which affects your sight. They can also help while you’re waiting for your diagnosis.
They work in a variety of eye care locations, including hospitals and eye clinics. Some ECLOs work remotely.
ECLOs provide a listening ear for everyone with a condition affecting their sight, helping you move forward with confidence. They also provide information to help you understand your condition, and details about support and services that are available to help with your everyday life and wellbeing. ECLOs also support family, friends and carers.
If you’d like to contact an ECLO, visit Sightline Directory and search ECLO and your postcode, call us on 0303 123 9999 or email [email protected].
When I got to see an ECLO it was like a whole block of concrete came off me.
What does an ECLO do?
ECLOs provide one to one support and a safe place to talk about how you’re feeling. Your ECLO will listen to you, answer your questions and give you information. They can also tell you about other support available.
You can get help with:
- eye conditions
- information about treatment and medications
- financial support you may be entitled to
- employment and training
- emotional support
- support for children in education
- living with sight loss and remaining independent
- voluntary organisations and local support groups.
- your ECLO can also tell you about the process of and benefits of certification and registration.
Watch our short film to find out how an ECLO can help you:
How do I contact an ECLO?
There are two ways to contact your local ECLO:
Your ophthalmologist (hospital eye doctor), optometrist or a nurse might ask your local ECLO to see you in the clinic or contact you.
You can also ask to speak to an ECLO. You don’t need a referral to see an ECLO.
To find out more about ECLOs and how to speak to one, you can:
- ask in your local eye clinic
- visit Sightline Directory and search ECLO and your postcode
- call us on 0303 123 9999
- email [email protected]
Good to know: talking to an ECLO is your choice. You might want to talk to an ECLO now, or at a later stage in your diagnosis. This option is available to you at any time, even if you previously said no.
More information about ECLOs
RNIB ECLOs sit at the centre of our Eye Care Support Pathway.
They’re an important bridge between health and social care and are central to the support and wellbeing of patients attending eye clinics or accessing eye care services.
In 2024, we celebrated 30 years of providing an ECLO service, and today our ECLOs support people across the UK. Click on this link to find out more.
ECLO qualifications and training
ECLOs are trained to a very high standard. All ECLOs complete RNIB's Eye Clinic Studies Course, which accredited by City University, London.
Throughout their careers, ECLOs are offered opportunities for continuing professional development (CPD), which enables them to keep up to date with new developments and offer you the best possible support.
Frequently asked questions
Can ECLOs answer medical questions?
While ECLOs are well informed about eye conditions and can give you information, you should speak to your ophthalmologist (hospital eye doctor) about any medical questions specific to your treatment and care.
Who do ECLOs support?
All our ECLOs support people of all ages and work with both children and adults. This includes patients, family members and carers.
What if I speak another language?
Please let your ECLO know if an interpreter would be helpful. For example, if English isn’t your first language or you have hearing loss. Your ECLO will arrange for an interpreter at your appointment. It’s also a good idea to tell them if you prefer to get any written letters or information in another format or language.
Can my family members or carers see the ECLO with me?
Yes - ECLOs are happy to talk with people close to you, but only once you have given them permission to do so.
They can provide general information about eye conditions to carers but will only discuss your personal situation with a carer or family member with your permission.
