SPECSAVERS says it has created 41 jobs in Hampshire as demand for sight and hearing tests returns.

The high street optician and audiologist says the jobs could be a “lifeline” to retail workers who have lost jobs during the pandemic.

Many of the roles do not require previous experience of eye or hearing care, it says.

The British Retail Consortium has said one in five high street retailers have closed during the pandemic, with one in 20 people who want a job unable to find one.

Specsavers’ head of recruitment, Alan Gregg, said: “As well as people with optical or audiology experience, we are eager to find experienced retailers who put the customer at the heart of what they do.

“This will help us to continue to offer the highest standards of care in order to meet the pent-up demand brought about by lockdowns and social distancing restrictions.

“At Specsavers, we offer a variety of promising careers, each rooted in first-class training and support to help people meet their goals and aspirations. For those at the start of their career, or looking for a change of direction, we have 196 apprenticeships available– a tried and tested programme that has produced many success stories.”

Nationally, Specsavers has created 400 retail roles in stores throughout the U, 61 home visiting roles and 730 management and laboratory roles for more experienced job seekers.

Specsavers UK managing director Paul Marshall said: “In the current climate we think it is important to invest in our communities and do all we can to get the high street back up and running.

“Apprenticeships will be key to rebuilding the jobs market, especially for young people. They can really help businesses develop and prosper and equip people with the skills and tools they need to become successful.

“We would love people to consider a career with us, even if it means doing something completely different to what they are used to, as we have such a broad spectrum of roles available and provide training at all levels.

“We always champion entrepreneurial spirit and many of our colleagues have gone on to own their own business – we now have 4,000 joint venture partners worldwide.”