In the UK alone, 1 in 5 people have been diagnosed with a disability with 80% of those being invisible. This includes epilepsy which can affect anyone at any age. However, 0.6% of people aged 0-17 have the condition. This is a huge group, affecting more than 50,000 UK children. Epilepsy receives a lot of stigma and discrimination with many people not diagnosed or treated correctly, which would seem unusual as one of the most common neurological diseases globally. You would expect more support and understanding for those with the condition.

PilPal is a pill dispenser with a difference! It allows children to take control of their epilepsy without feeling pressured or judged, as their medication and the way they rely on it can often take over their lives. The use of a 12-hour timer and connected LED lights allows scheduled administration. This means medication won’t be forgotten or taken too often. A wireless charging base ensures the user can take their device wherever they go, by simply placing it on the base when required to quickly charge.

The optional app provides educational and technical support for the user but also functions as a tracker, allowing both the child and parent to stay on top of when medication has been taken and how long until the next pill is required. Overall, PilPal is made to support a child that is struggling with their disability and has subsequently been designed to be used as a friend, but not confused with a toy, to keep them safe. There are several other exterior skin options, meaning the child can stay interested in using the device and can customise it to their own personal preference.