The developers behind Brain in Hand, an app devised to help those with autistic spectrum condition, are seeking expansion with some of the funds being sought through equity-based crowdfunding. Through the leading UK platform Crowdcube, Brain in Hand hopes to raise £100,000 of the total £750,000 needed the rest of which is being sought from other investors. If successful Brain in Hand will increase its users from 125 to over 4,000 enabling it to be available to individuals as well as organisation.
Brain in Hand was devised by Andrew Stamp whose younger sun was diagnosed with autism. Frustrated with quality of local services available, Stamp consulted with clinical psychologist Dr Tony Brown, and along with other professionals and academics (some of whom have also been diagnosed with autism) came up with the idea for the app. Brain in Hand provides assistive technological support through a secure website and a smartphone app to develop and encourage confidence and foster greater independence. Initially using the website, users create a sort of diary thinking ahead about the daily challenges they might face and solutions that help them cope. Through the app the user has instant access to those solutions when needed and they can monitor their mood using a traffic light system, with red being the most severe indication. If the user records a red light warning they will be in touch immediately with a mentor. Using solution - focussed conversational techniques the mentor provides a calming influencing helping the user regain better control.
The app is mainly used by four NHS trusts, including a mental health specialist trust with over 125 users currently registered. In the last week it has expanded its license which limited its access to organisations, to include individuals. Brain in Hand wants to expand the current user base to over 4,0000 but will need funds to provide technical support as well as increased mentoring services. To date £375,000 has been pledged from a variety of investors directly. The company is seeking £100,000 in 55 days through equity based crowdfunding and has launched a campaign through Crowdcube. The funds being sought represent a total 7.9% equity in the project and qualifies for tax relief under the UK governments EIS scheme.
It is reported that around 700,000 (1 person in 100) have been diagnosed with autistic spectrum condition, 15 percent of which are in full time employment. Successful expansion of Brain in Hand will provide sufferers with a means of gaining more control and independence as well as mentoring supporting with the touch of an icon on their smartphone. For more information and to register interest click here to visit the project's campaign page on Crowdcube.
Image Credit; Beverly & Pack
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