INSIGHTS / News

Every year thousands of young people with autism start out on university life and software created by Exeter SETsquared member Brain in Hand is helping to support them.

Rosie King shared her experiences with BBC’s The One Show, discussing how she prepared herself for university or as Rosie explained: “one of the most exciting and most petrifying concepts on my mind – leaving home to go to university and start my life as an independent functioning adult.”  

To give her the support she needs, Rosie has been using Brain in Hand software.  Packed with features, Brain in Hand helps Rosie access support when and where she needs it.  Or as Rosie says: “It’s as though I have that older Rosie in my pocket and I can call her up for advice, whether I’m just a little uneasy or having a full-blown panic attack.”

The Brain in Hand team, based at the Exeter Innovation Centre, has developed an award winning support system which enables users to cope smoothly with everyday situations. Combining a tailored website and phone app with remote support from mentors, the system can be tailored to suit individuals and their daily lives including diarising activities and charting moods.

Alongside students selecting Brain in Hand as part of their Disabled Students Allowance, an increasing number of universities are also adopting the software.  Brain in Hand helps to transform the way universities support students with hidden disabilities and mental health problems, so they can really enjoy their time at university and reach their full potential.  It helps university support teams to support increased numbers of students and provide intervention when it’s needed most.

David Fry, CEO of Brain in Hand says: “We truly have the technology to help large numbers of people with autism and other conditions to lead more independent lives.  Brain in Hand is a unique assistive technology system helping individuals be their best – confident, supported and in control.”

The Brain in Hand team is made up of ten employees, many of whom have first-hand experience of autism.”

The company works with a range of organisations to provide innovative support to people not only with autism, but mental health conditions and learning difficulties.  It is also currently working with medical research organisations to assess its application for those with acquired brain injuries.