An immersive technology-based treatment for depression in children has been awarded more than £100,000 in funding.
D:ReAMVR, developed by Bradford-based digital health startup Ascentys, received the funding through Mindset-XR, a government scheme supporting extended reality innovations for mental health.
Ascentys' technology makes use of artificial intelligence and related technology from the gaming industry, in an effort to deliver engaging and more cost-effective therapy.
The recent grant adds to a combined £350,000 of funding that Ascentys recently received from Innovate UK and the National Institute of Health and Care Research for this technology.
Support has also come from institutions such as Alzheimer’s Research UK and NHS mental health services in the region.
Ascentys claims that children's mental health services are in crisis due to increasing referrals, long waiting times, and staff burnout.
Citing World Health Organisation figures, Ascentys drew attention to childhood depression, "a leading cause of suicide," as well as to ONS figures which indicate that nearly one third of 16 to 24 year olds have been reporting some evidence of depression.
Early evaluations of Its D:ReAMVRindicate that it delivers on its potential without compromising patient safety or therapeutic effectiveness, said Ascentys - with cost analyses suggesting the technology could reduce treatment costs by more than 30 per cent over a 12-month period.
The technology contrasts with current therapeutic approaches described by Ascentys as being dull and repetitive, with De:ReAMVR instead engaging young people in a way that reflects their increasingly digital-first world.
Dr Sayed Kazmi, founder of Ascentys, said: "We are delighted to be joining the Mindset-XR programme.
"While the funding is of course important for helping us continue to drive progress in developing the innovation, the most exciting part of the scheme is being able to connect with clinicians, academics, and patients across the country who share our ambition for revolutionising how we treat children with depression.
"We believe what we have is more than just a product – it is a new way of thinking about how we engage children with their therapy.
"With the support of the Health Innovation Network South London, we are already starting to build new relationships.
"We know the enthusiasm for change is out there and we’re looking forward to partnering with clinicians and services who want to find a better way of doing things."
Further information is available by contacting Dr Kazmi on s.kazmi@ascentys.co.uk
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