At GoodOaks, we continuously seek innovative ways to improve care across our local communities. We aim to break down barriers and embrace new ideas to better support the millions of families in the UK caring for their loved ones.
Recently we hosted a workshop in partnership with a talented local student, Max Bateson, who is pioneering a new model for social care.
Max was honoured as the “Impact Entrepreneur of the Year and Health Champion” at the Ingenuity Impact Showcase 2024 and awarded a six-month Innovate UK grant for thinking about the future of elderly care.
Introducing HYGGE – A new vision for elderly care
Max’s start-up, HYGGE, received £18,000 in awards to fund its development. His business concept provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional care homes by combining modern technology, adaptable living spaces, and a supportive community environment. With a background as an Operations Analyst, Max has channelled his design expertise into creating modular, rapidly deployable, and affordable living solutions that enhance the lives of family carers and the elderly.
GoodOaks’ role was one of four subcontractors invited to contribute to this project, alongside:
- An accountant, Mercedes Monroy
- GoodOaks representatives
- An architect, Peter Hughes and
- Salamandra Animations, led by Christine McKay.
Our role involved hosting the workshop and sourcing participants to provide feedback. Other attendees included carers, clients, financial planners, care home managers, a social worker, and other students.
During the workshop, Salamandra Animations presented an engaging animation illustrating the HYGGE concept. Participants worked in groups to assess the plans, identifying what might or might not work. The session concluded with a Q&A, offering Max valuable insights into the project’s feasibility and potential.
The primary goal of the workshop was to raise product awareness. Max sought holistic feedback, exploring clinical, wellbeing, and financial perspectives to identify the needs the product could address and refine its target market.
Future workshops are planned, including a session in February to finalise architectural plans, assess business viability, and discuss manufacturing strategies.
You can take a look at the design concept HERE and for more information about GoodOaks’ visiting and live-in care services, please contact us here.