GOC announces death of former Chair Gareth Hadley

The General Optical Council (GOC) today announces that former Chair Gareth Hadley has sadly died after a short illness.

Gareth was Chair of the GOC Council from February 2013 until February 2021, steering significant projects such as the Education Strategic Review, reforms to continuing professional development, and the publication of the first ever set of professional standards for registrants. He was also Chair of the Prison Opticians Trust and a Liveryman at the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers.

An online remembrance page is available for those who wish to share memories and tributes to Gareth.

Former Chief Executive and Registrar Lesley Longstone, said: “Gareth will be sorely missed for his absolute focus on strategic reform of our regulatory functions, and ultimately his contribution to eye care safety. But I will miss him for his warm friendship and enduring support through massive periods of change, not least during the early stages of the pandemic.”

Current Chief Executive and Registrar Leonie Milliner, said: “Gareth was a spirited, kind and generous Chair, and he will be much missed by staff, Council and members.  His support and encouragement for the GOC, even beyond his tenure as Chair, was exemplary and he was well-respected both in the optical sector and amongst healthcare regulators.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”