Established in 2011, Birrell & Rainford is an independent optometrist located in the West End of Edinburgh.
We are passionate about our local community; find us on the beautiful, cobbled William Street, surrounded by quirky, boutique independent retailers, bars and restaurants.
We're close to the business district and in walking distance of Haymarket Station.
WHY BIRRELL & RAINFORD?
As an independent opticians, we offering a range of clinical services in a family-friendly environment.
We have a passion for optics and strive to provide a service that is tailored to each individual's needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, giving our patients the best vision possible.
We have a wide range of contemporary frames and lenses, allowing us to provide a bespoke solution to your eyewear needs.
OUR TEAM
Jim Birrell, FBDO
Having begun his optical career over 30 years ago, Jim has extensive experience as a dispensing and contact lens optician. Prior to forming his partnership with Brenda Rainford, Jim was the Manager of Black & Lizars, Shandwick Place for many years. Jim established an enviable reputation and loyal following in the industry, being well known for both his friendly, enthusiastic attitude and his skill in advising customers on spectacles and lenses.
Having dispensed in private practices and hospital environments, Jim has a particular interest in fitting contact lenses. Jim’s expertise enables him to fit individually compatible and comfortable lenses. This includes fitting children and people with specialist needs.
Jim is registered with the General Optical Council as a Qualified Dispensing Optician & Contact Lens Fitter and is a Member of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians.
Brenda Rainford, MCOptom. FAOI
Having qualified as an optometrist in Ireland, Brenda has been practising in Scotland since 1987, working in hospitals and private practice, principally with Black & Lizars. Over this time she has built up a loyal client base who appreciate her extensive optical expertise and professional and approachable manner.
Brenda has specialist interest in paediatric optometry, with particular expertise in the areas of binocular vision, visual stress, and assessing methods of helping children who are experiencing reading difficulties.
Brenda qualified as an optometrist in 1985. She is a member of the General Optical Council, College of Optometrists and the Irish Association of Optometrists.
Dan Watt - Practice Manager
Dan is responsible for the smooth running of the practice. Dan has worked in optics for several years and has a wealth of experience in both dispensing and management.
Dan explains the benefits of different lens designs from our large selection of quality lenses and he helps the patients choose the best optical solution to suit their lifestyle. He is introducing interesting new frame collections.
Dan has a degree in Business Management and he shares the team’s passion for providing personalised care in our friendly practice.