‘BOT’ TO HELP THE ELDERLY
COMPANION TO HELP FIGHT LONELINESS
ABRISTOL start-up has invented the UK’s first companion robot for old people, and is planning to pilot the bots in the city this year.
Service Robotics, based at innovation hub Future Space, developed Genie Connect to combat loneliness and help elderly people live independently.
The robot is voice-controlled and can answer questions, and play music and videos.
It can also make video calls to friends and family, and connect to other users who have similar interests.
The bot can be set with reminders to do things such as take medication and attend appointments, too.
Interest in the start-up has been so high that the company has raised more than 178 per cent of its target funding of £120,000 since its launch in December 2018.
More than 262 investors have pledged to spend 11.5 per cent equity in the venture, raising more than £214,000 to date.
Rob Parkes, chief executive of Service Robotics, said: “Our elderly population is growing, with so many people over the age of 65 living alone, our mission is to enable independent living for longer and to help alleviate the huge negative impact of loneliness.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response we’ve had our GenieConnect project and the support only further highlights that there is a gap in the market here.
❝ Loneliness and solitude can have a hugely detrimental effect on our physical health, which is why we have developed a solution to this growing problem
Rob Parkes
“Loneliness and solitude can have a hugely detrimental effect on our physical health, which is why we have developed a solution to this growing problem.”
Service Robotics is now looking for people to take part in a threemonth pilot programme.
Around 150 Genies will be sent out into the Bristol region later this year with the aim of launching at the end of 2019.
Each pilot user will receive a free Genie robot which they will be able to use for the duration of the project.
The robot will be loaded with services and content, and will be set up in the user’s home by a technician.
Marty Reid, centre director at Future Space, said: “Service Robotics is doing some incredible work which will revolutionise many aspects of the elderly care crisis.”