Method

First, we undertook in-depth qualitative research with 35 veterans with pain from all branches of the armed forces, and sought feedback and input from veteran health agencies including OpRestore and OpCourage.  We then built an interactive prototype and evaluated all its key features with more veterans.

Results

We produced a major research report into diverse veteran experience with pain, built the app prototype, and successfully achieved proof of concept. At the end of the project, we reported on veteran feedback of the final prototype.  This was universally positive and is best summed up with this single comment from a 53 year old Royal Navy veteran with pain:

“If this had been around, and I’d known about it, my journey might have been a hell of a lot different, and I may not have struggled in the way I have.” 

Conclusion

The project identified the wide prevalence of hidden persistent pain in veterans, and demonstrated how many wish to overcome their pain to live a fulfilled life as a civilian.  Also, it evidenced the need for more pain support and to tailor it to the specific outlook and needs of veterans and their families.

Overall, the project achieved its objective of proof of concept. Given its success, Umio decided to set up a new company – Ooex Limited (www.ooex.co) - to develop and license the technology to UK veteran agencies, including the major charities and the Op NHS providers, as well as those overseas. 

Next steps

Ooex is now seeking seed investment to fund development of its technology. It has expanded its market to include other common contexts of stuck and struggling lives, whilst prioritising veterans and their families. These include burnout, anxiety, loneliness, and depression – all of which veterans experience too, often at the same time as their chronic pain.