ABOUT
Providing each patient with the best possible
solution for their eye care needs
Our Mission Statement
To provide each patient with the best possible solution for their eye care needs in a trustworthy
and friendly environment while keeping style and affordability in mind.
Our story
When Richard Morwood took over McDowell opticians in 2000, it was a well established and busy optometry practice. And it has stayed that way, thanks to Richard’s never diminishing commitment to delivering high quality eye care. Each patient is treated as an individual and is given the time and attention that he or she needs.
Unlike the conveyor belt mentality of multi-nationals where time is money and patients are numbers; At McDowells Opticians people are important and so is their health.
Recently, Richard Morwood acquired a diploma in Independent Prescribing. A two year course with placements at the eye departments of Belfast hospitals, it allows him to manage and prescribe for common eye problems like conjunctivitis. And if you have an emergency involving your eyes, he can either help you on the spot or send you straight through to the right person. We feel this is a valuable service to the community which we are a part of.
Our Team
Richard Morwood – owner, optometrist
On completing his optometry degree in Manchester in 1986, Richard worked in England and Zimbabwe, got married in Scotland and then set up home in Northern Ireland. With 3 almost grown daughters, he enjoys photography and keeps fit (and sane) by going to a spinning class. He is a snob when it comes to wine and won’t admit to adoring his wife’s border terrier. He qualified from the Independent Prescribing course in 2019.
Favourite designer glasses: Tom Davies
Victoria McCartney – optometrist
Victoria qualified as an optometrist in 2006 from Glasgow Caledonian University and recently completed the Independent Prescribing speciality. She attended Friends school in Lisburn and is married to Moore who is also an optician. They have three young girls.
The best thing about her job is the community feel of working within an independent practice. The clinical nature of her job is of special interest to her and she is happiest when investigating a sticky, red eye!
Hobbies: running, but only when all the stars align and she manages to get out of the house.
Favourite designer: Victoria Beckham
Deirdre Shaw– receptionist
After 25 years in the Financial Services Industry and a career break, Deirdre joined us in 2017. She loves working with people and learning something new about optics every day. She likes the challenge of finding the perfect frame for people who think they don’t suit glasses. Deirdre went to Glenwood Primary School and her two boys are at Belfast Boys School. She is married and has a Westie called Bonnie.
Hobbies: knitting, crochet and crafting. Wall paper projects also a favourite.
Favourite designer: Joules
Samantha Davidson – optical assistant
This lady keeps the practice running smoothly and does so with a smile. She likes to interact with people and to get to know them a bit better. A good day is when she has done her best for the patient by advising them on a frame and lenses and giving good customer care.
Born and reared in the Shankill area, she started off in childcare but discovered optics in 1997 and has loved it ever since. Married with a son and a hairy baby called Marley Moo (the dog).
Hobbies: Visiting the USA
Favourite designer: Mulberry and Michael Kors
People change. Eyes change.
Our commitment to quality eyecare doesn't.