Company intelligence
General Optical Council
The General Optical Council is the regulator for eye care services in the UK.
About General Optical Council
The General Optical Council (GOC) is the regulator for eye care services in the UK. We currently register around 34,000 optometrists, dispensing opticians, student opticians and optical businesses. The GOC has four core functions: • setting standards for optical education and training, performance and conduct • approving qualifications leading to registration • maintaining a register of individuals who are qualified and fit to practise, train or carry on business as optometrists and dispensing opticians • investigating and acting where registrants’ fitness to practise, train or carry on business is impaired
Verified activity
Signals from General Optical Council
3 published signals
Presence & Recognition
General Optical Council is now on Instagram.
Reported by General Optical Council
Research & Knowledge
General Optical Council published findings from its 2026 registrant workforce and perceptions survey showing registrants are cautiously optimistic about AI supporting eye care and highlighting workforce pressures, increased job satisfaction, and a strong interest in additional qualifications and skills.
Reported by General Optical Council
Research & Knowledge
General Optical Council is consulting on changes to its position statement on the testing of sight and delegation, with the consultation open until 21 October.
Reported by General Optical Council