An AI-powered digital platform designed to help first responders deal with trauma has secured £1.2 million in a funding round.
Sentinel, which helps people in high stress working environments, including emergency workers, clinicians and armed forces personnel, was developed in partnership with Strathclyde University’s Department of Psychological Sciences and Health.
It has now won the backing of investors including the university itself, SFC Capital and Scottish Enterprise, as it seeks to expand its operations and potential customer base.
The app was developed with the help of over 1,000 frontline workers who fed back their experiences to ensure that every feature reflects real-world challenges and needs, integrating the latest insights in neuroscience, digital health and trauma-informed design.
Sentinel CEO Mykay Kamara said: “The wellbeing of those who serve on the front lines is paramount. Sentinel exists to ensure that the people who protect and care for others receive the same care in return. This investment allows us to expand our impact and further develop our evidence-based tools for trauma prevention, management and recovery.”
Anne Henderson, head of investment at Strathclyde, said: “Our collaboration with Sentinel exemplifies Strathclyde’s commitment to research that delivers real-world impact. By combining cutting-edge psychological science with practical digital innovation, we are helping to foster resilience and post-traumatic growth among people exposed to trauma in their work.
“We are delighted to support Sentinel through the Strathclyde Inspire Entrepreneurs Fund and look forward to working closely with Mykay and the team as they grow and extend their positive impact globally.”
Derek Shaw, director of entrepreneurship and investment at Scottish Enterprise, said: “This investment highlights our dedication to supporting the growth of ambitious business with scalable solutions. Scotland is a global leader in digital health and care and backing innovative companies such as Sentinel is key to maintaining that position and driving long-term economic impact.”