The Design Council has announced the finalists of the 2019 Spark program - a leading UK product support program and fund. The potential funding, comes in addition to £15,000 initially awarded to each finalist to develop their original ideas to support independent living in and around the home. The focus of this year's Spark is on products that improve lives and finalists include an innovative water purification device, post-surgery underwear that aids healing and a self-stabilising spoon for people with hand tremors.
"We're incredibly proud of our Spark programme. Since we started in 2014 it has helped more than 100 innovators and entrepreneurs to develop their product ideas to make life better for people," commented Sarah Weir OBE, Design Council CEO. "This year's focus - on helping people live more independently in the home - is an issue very close to many of our hearts. Spark presents a great opportunity for anyone with a smart idea to change lives, break new ground, build businesses and drive innovation in the UK. We are delighted by the diverse new ideas presented and look forward to seeing how our finalists progress in the years ahead."
2019 Spark Finalists
Raised Seat Bidet
Designed by Andy Speechley, Inventor
A raised toilet seat which has been adapted so people can have a warm water bidet wash whilst seated.
Swift Duvet Cover
Designed by Ben King and Luke Gray, Co-founders of product design studio Koa
An easy change duvet cover, which does not become misaligned in the way that the traditional duvet covers often do.
Post-Surgery Underwear
Designed by Esher N'jie, Entrepreneur
Post-surgery underwear eliminating major challenges to the healing process, decreasing post-surgery complications.
Skuma
Designed by Daniel Kabagema, Electrical Engineer & Alexandre Yunus Mahé, Industrial Engineer
A water purification device that enables people to purify water from virtually any source and then re-mineralise it with minerals of their choice.
Super Wipes
Designed by Helen Kemp, Designer
Reusable and biodegradable wipes kit and a 100% natural cleansing concentrate.
Smart Spoon
Designed by Hemal Dias, 3rd Year Engineering Student
An affordable self-stabilising spoon for people with hand tremors.
Eco Airer
Designed by Hilda Varley, Inventor
A device designed for small spaces to hang clothes to dry or store, which can be overhanging a door.
Bug Grip
Designed by Jennifer Lake, Entrepreneur
A universal clamp that can be used to temporarily fix two things together, giving people an extra set of 'hands' and encouraging independence.
Wheelbie
Designed by Jonathan Nwabueze, Engineer
A hybrid shopping bag that can be converted into a trolley with a gentle tap.
Helping Hand
Designed by Ruby Gregory, Student & Creative
A food preparation glove using smart materials to protect against cuts and burns.
Photos: Oliver Dixon, Courtesy of Design Council