Healthtech start-up secures £75,000 grant

A North East healthtech start-up has secured £75,000 in funding to accelerate the development of technology designed to support people living with dementia and receiving palliative care.

Saltburn-by-the-Sea-based Souuthe has been awarded an Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award, with founder Lou Willis-Keeler selected as one of 61 entrepreneurs from a record 1590 applicants nationwide.

The business is developing calming technology built into familiar objects such as teddy bears and cushions to help reduce anxiety and agitation.

Designed to complement existing care, the technology draws on research into the physiological benefits of touch and comfort.

The idea was inspired by Lou’s personal experience after losing four family members within a year and witnessing the challenges of end-of-life care.

A former NSPCC child protection manager, she had previously explored calming interventions for children before adapting the concept for palliative and dementia care.

Lou said: “This validates years of hard work.

“I’m neurodivergent, with dyslexia, ADHD and Tourette syndrome and I’ve often struggled to get a vision onto paper in a way that attracts funding. 

“It’s rooted in my own experience of loss, and how much reliance there still is on medication as the only answer to anxiety in end-of-life care.”

The £75,000 grant will fund clinical testing and support the regulatory approval process ahead of planned trials with hospices and NHS trusts.

Lou will also receive a year of business support from Innovate UK, including mentoring, training and networking opportunities.

Tom Adeyoola, executive chair of Innovate UK, added: “This year’s Women in Innovation cohort represents some of the UK’s most exciting entrepreneurial talent. 

“These founders are developing the ideas, technologies and businesses that will drive economic growth, attract investment, and tackle some of the world's biggest challenges.”

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