Business Details
Expert Eye Care Services in Durham
Berry Simon has been dedicated to providing professional, customer-focused optometry services in Durham for nearly two decades. Our practice specialises in comprehensive eye examinations, advanced diagnostic technology including OCT scanning, and tailored solutions for children with special needs through our award-winning Erin's World frame line. We prioritise accessibility and inclusivity, offering wheelchair-friendly facilities, low-vision assessments, and specialist equipment for patients with disabilities. Our team regularly undertakes additional training to ensure we maintain the highest standards of care using the most advanced equipment available.Recognised for our pioneering work in adapting optometry practices for special facial characteristics, we received the Vision Pioneer Campaigner of the Year Award in 2017. We serve both local communities and international clients, offering NHS entitlement options alongside private services. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures we provide the most comprehensive eye care solutions available.
Services
Eye examinations
OCT scanning
Contact lenses
Specialist frames
Hearing tests
Low vision assessments
Children's eyewear
Frame repairs
NHS services
Visual field tests
Highlights and features
- 20 years of experience in specialist optometry services
- Award-winning Erin's World frames for children with special needs
- Advanced OCT scanning technology for detailed eye health analysis
- Fully accessible, wheelchair-friendly practice environment
- NHS entitlement options available for eligible patients
Associations and certifications
- Vision Pioneer Campaigner of the Year Award
Services
Eye examinations
Our comprehensive eye examinations assess both vision quality and eye health. Using advanced diagnostic tools, we detect potential issues like glaucoma and macular degeneration while providing accurate prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses. The 20-40 minute appointments include detailed assessments of visual acuity, eye movements, and retinal health, with options for NHS-eligible patients to receive free examinations under specific criteria.
OCT scanning
Optical Coherence Tomography scanning provides 3D cross-sectional images of the retina. This non-invasive test detects subtle changes in retinal layers, enabling early diagnosis of conditions like diabetes, glaucoma, and macular holes. The painless procedure takes no longer than 10 minutes and forms part of our premium eye health assessments, available as a standalone service or combined with routine examinations.
Erin's World frames
Specifically designed for children with Down Syndrome and other special needs, these frames offer superior fit and comfort. Developed through our pioneering research, the collection addresses unique facial characteristics to provide secure, comfortable eyewear solutions. Available through private prescription, these specialist frames ensure better vision correction for children who struggle with standard designs.
Contact lens fitting
We offer comprehensive contact lens fittings for all lens types including soft, rigid gas permeable, and multifocal lenses. The process includes detailed eye measurements, trial lens assessments, and aftercare instructions. Standard fittings are free with purchase, while specialist lens fittings include professional guidance on insertion, removal, and proper lens care techniques.
Low vision assessments
For patients with uncorrectable vision loss, our specialist assessments explore alternative solutions beyond standard glasses. We evaluate options including magnifiers, telescopes, and bespoke visual aids tailored to individual needs. The assessment process focuses on maximising remaining vision to improve quality of life through practical, everyday visual improvements.
Questions
What eye examinations do you offer?
We provide routine eye tests, comprehensive examinations with OCT scanning, and specialist assessments for contact lens fittings. NHS entitlement options are available for eligible patients.
Do you offer specialist glasses for children with special needs?
Yes, our Erin's World frame collection specifically addresses the needs of children with Down Syndrome and other special requirements through specially designed, secure-fitting eyewear solutions.
What hearing care services are available?
Through Response Hearing, we offer free hearing assessments, microsuction wax removal, and digital hearing aid fittings from leading manufacturers in a dedicated service.
Can you repair broken glasses?
Yes, we repair all frame types including lens replacement, hinge repairs, and frame adjustments, regardless of where the glasses were originally purchased.
Are there payment plans available?
We offer monthly payment schemes for contact lens checks, macula assessments, and glaucoma monitoring, starting from £4.50 per month with included regular examinations.
Is the practice accessible for disabled visitors?
Our wheelchair-friendly facility includes specialist equipment for low-vision patients and staff trained in supporting visitors with disabilities in a welcoming environment.
Reviews (6)
Rachel Higgin
Jun 03, 2022
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Absolutely fantastic opticians for children. Their children's range is second to none! My son has had to wear glasses since age 2 and the specsavers ones just wouldn't stay on! After discovering Simon berry's tomatoe glasses we have never looked back! I always recommend to other parents! Today we got prescription goggles and my son is very happy! Thank you lovely friendly staff too who care and read up on you before you come in. Great service x
A. L.
Nov 28, 2020
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Very highly qualified experienced staff using state of the art professional equipment. Covid proticols are very safe and thorough. A true neighbourhood community inclusive opticians, looking after generations in families. Prescriptions are bespoke, and pricing is very competitive. This practice is staffed by experts.
Stephen Dobson
Jul 07, 2020
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This is a superb Opticians, with one of THE BEST Optometrists I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. I believe Simon Berry is a gifted man, with excellent interpersonal skills and unbelievable knowledge in his field A pleasure to be looked after here
Jane Robson
Apr 06, 2020
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Always a pleasure to be seen here and a friendly welcome every time. The opticians and staff are experts in their roles so the care is outstanding. There is real enthusiasm for all things optical which is very engaging. This practice is such an asset for our area. Love the new refurbishment - especially the chameleon paint on the outside corner of the building!
Roger Collins
Jul 24, 2018
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Fantastic opticians. Of all the opticians over the last 40 years I have visited these are head and shoulders above all the rest. And infinitely better than all the chains.
Laura Dobson
Mar 02, 2018
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Lovely family business, excellent, trustworthy & 100% satisfaction over the years, would certainly recommend
