Using Digital Technology to Support Psychological Therapies
In August 2020, NHS Grampian’s Innovation Hub launched an SBRI competition, supported by Innovate UK, seeking innovative organisations who could create brand new innovative digital therapy solutions for children and young people.
The aim of the competition was to increase the availability of psychological care for children and young people with significant gastrointestinal symptoms, but with no underlying medical disease. Where there are no medical solutions, digital psychological support allows children and their families to self-manage symptoms and live a fuller life. There is an increase in demand for services and a UK wide lack of health care professionals to deliver psychological interventions.
In Scotland, 50% of GP referrals to Children’s Hospitals concern uncomfortable bodily symptoms without underlying disease. This can affect children in a number of different ways; causing significant absence from school, reduced social time with friends, withdrawing from clubs and fun activities, increased anxiety and frustration, with ongoing time off work for parents and carers. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reviewed all research evidence and found computerised cognitive behavioural therapy to be as effective for mild-moderate depression and anxiety as that delivered by a skilled therapist. Researchers also found completion of current digital solutions can be poor due to outdated and old fashioned technology.
The SBRI competition challenged innovators to create interactive and engaging digital solutions for children and young people which will deliver AI-driven psychological therapy in a fun and creative way. Five Phase 1 competitors were selected from over 73 applications made in August 2020 and worked to think through their ideas before making their “pitch” in a Dragon’s style event in May 2021. The panel of Dragons included NHS Grampian Consultant staff, business and industry expertise from Opportunity North East, Innovate UK, and technical expertise from commercial partners. The panel also welcomed two of the youngest Dragons, who were two volunteers from the Aberdeen Children’s Research Network.
Two competitors were selected to progress to Phase 2 of the SBRI competition. These included Tacit Connexions Ltd from Wokingham and Voxiso Ltd from Edinburgh.