Wheelchair users could gain greater levels of freedom thanks to a device invented by an Alyth man.
Paul Lawson came up with the idea of Grippoz after watching his partner Diana, who has used a chair for six years, struggle with everyday activities.
Grippoz is a wheelchair rim cover that will enable users to propel themselves with greater ease and comfort. The silicone grips come in black and pink and offer extra protection from germs and infection.
The prototype has given Diana more independence and Paul now hopes a crowdfunding initiative could bring the invention to market, benefiting the UK’s 700,000 wheelchair users.
The social enterprise that has been set up to market Grippoz will sell it online, with profits being used to help small businesses and new products in the area.
The initial funding needed for the injection moulds is being raised through the established crowdfunding platform Kickstarter. The campaign will run until December 8 and aims to raise at least £22,500.
Diana said the invention has changed her life.
“When I first I went out with my Grippoz on, I realised I didn’t have to wait for him and went off myself into the hospital for my appointment.
“The colourful push-rims really make my chair stand out more. For the first time people saw me and were speaking to me in my chair and not the person pushing me. It was just wonderful.”
Paul and Diana are licensing the product to a social enterprise managed by GrowBiz, a community-based enterprise support organisation in Perthshire.
Contributions to the Grippoz crowdfunding campaign can be made by visiting www.grippoz.com/kickstarter.