Can school staff claim for a vision test or for the cost of glasses for work?
Yes if they are a DSE User:
Vision Test:
DSE Users can claim up to £30 for the cost of vision test. Refunds for vision tests will not normally be given more than once in a 12 month period
Glasses for work:
DSE Users can claim up to £50 towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses if the glasses are required specifically for DSE work.
Claiming for a vision test/cost of glasses for work:
The individual will need to ask their Optician to complete and sign a School Employee Vision Examination Form (they may claim for their vision test and glasses on the same form).
Once the Form is completed the individual will need to sign the claim and hand the form to the school, along with the VAT receipt(s), for processing.
Reimbursements can only be paid via the monthly payroll; the school will not be able to reimburse staff locally.
What is a DSE User?
DSE Users’ are school staff that are required to regularly use display screen equipment such as computers and laptops as a significant part of their normal work in the school (daily, for continuous periods for an hour or more, several times each day, most days of the week).
Refunds for vision tests will not normally be given more than once in a 12 month period.
Where can I find out more information on reimbursements for eye tests and glasses and where can I find a School Employee Vision Examination Form?
Community/Voluntary Controlled School/Maintained PRUs:
The Local Authority has published Reimbursements for Vision Tests and Glasses Finance Regulations on Suffolk Learning | SAT | Finance Regulations .
These set out the statutory requirements that apply to staff in community and voluntary controlled schools and maintained PRUs.
Foundation/Voluntary Aided Schools:
The LA recommends that governing bodies of foundation/VA schools implement its Reimbursements for Vision Tests and Glasses Finance Regulations in line with community and voluntary controlled schools.
The governing body of any foundation/VA school wishing to adopt alternative regulations must agree a school policy for the reimbursement of vision tests and glasses. Staff in these schools will need to consult the governors’ policy.
School Employee Vision Examination Form:
A copy of the School Employee Vision Examination Form is included as Annex A of the Reimbursements for Vision Tests and Glasses Finance Regulations. It is also available as a separate document.
Both documents are on Suffolk Learning | SAT | Finance Regulations.
Schools may wish to supply appropriate staff with a copy.
Where can I find out more about health and safety responsibilities for schools?
LMS Document 2015/11 sets out some key information on health and safety and clarifies where the responsibilities lie