S. Walton eye care optician storefront at night with starry sky and pedestrians

Supporting the Community

Community has always been at the heart of S Walton Eyecare.
Since opening our doors in 1926, we’ve believed that an opticians should be more than a place to have your eyes tested — it should be a meaningful part of the neighbourhood it serves.

For nearly 100 years, we’ve supported local charities, schools, wellbeing projects and community groups across South Tyneside. As we approach our centenary in 2026, our commitment to giving back is stronger than ever.

Proudly Serving South Shields for Nearly 100 Years

Since opening our doors in 1926, we’ve always believed that true healthcare goes beyond the consultation room.

As we approach our centenary in 2026, our dedication to supporting local people, community projects and charitable initiatives remains stronger than ever.

Award-Winning Community Commitment

Business in the Community Award 2025

We were honoured to receive the Business in the Community Award 2025, recognising our continued efforts to support families, local initiatives and wellbeing across South Tyneside.

SightCare Awards 2025 crystal trophy for Community Practice of the Year winner S Walton Eyecare

#LoveSouthTyneside “Above and Beyond” Award Sponsor

In 2025, we proudly sponsored the Above and Beyond category at the #LoveSouthTyneside Community Awards.

This year’s recipient, Wayne “Rambo” Holmes, was recognised for his inspirational work founding The Red Bench Project, a charity dedicated to suicide prevention and men’s mental health.

Supporting the Great North Run

Each year, we support and sponsor local runners taking part in the Great North Run, raising money for causes that make a real difference.
We are proud to help raise awareness and funds for a variety of local and national charities.

Local Outreach & Community Partnerships

We regularly signpost patients to trusted programmes and services across South Tyneside, including:
Mental health support charities
Local wellbeing groups
Community food and outreach organisations
Independent local businesses we collaborate with

Our goal is to ensure everyone who walks through our doors feels supported — whether they need clinical care, community support or simply someone to point them in the right direction.

Our Ongoing Commitment

As we approach 100 years of caring for our community, our promise remains the same:
To continue investing in high-quality care
To support and celebrate local people
To be an active, positive presence in South Tyneside
To give back to the community that has trusted us since 1926
Community involvement isn’t an add-on — it’s central to who we are.

Two hands forming heart shape with "PLEDGE South Tyneside" text below

Want to learn more about our community work?

We’re always happy to share what we’re involved in and how you can get involved too.