Chris Whitehouse, a political consultant and expert on medical technology policy and regulation at Whitehouse Communications, and advisor to MedTech suppliers highlights government investment in MedTech for mental health.
Smart glasses to help with everyday tasks, augmented reality filters to reduce anxiety, and AI-powered virtual coaches that can provide tailored guidance are among the 17 projects awarded funding to deliver new forms of mental health support across the UK.
In a bid to expand access and ease pressure on NHS services, the government has announced 3.6 million GBP in funding through Innovate UK. The initiative, unveiled by Science Minister Lord Vallance, is designed to accelerate the development of low-cost, scalable digital tools that can be deployed across both the NHS and the private sector.
The projects target a broad spectrum of mental health needs, including ADHD, autism, depression, PTSD, and addiction recovery. By harnessing artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and immersive platforms, the programme aims to reshape how mental health care is delivered and accessed.
Among the funded innovations is a smart glasses system developed by London-based CrossSense. The lightweight device is designed to support individuals with severe depression and memory loss by recognising household objects and providing real-time prompts via a connected app. From issuing safety warnings – such as “stay away from boiling water on the hob” – to reframing negative thought patterns, the technology is intended to guide vulnerable users through daily routines and support greater independence.
Other projects include augmented reality filters to alleviate anxiety, immersive platforms for delivering therapy remotely, and AI-driven virtual coaches capable of providing tailored guidance on demand. Together, these approaches aim to improve accessibility, reduce waiting times, and extend care to those with complex needs, including patients in remote or underserved areas.
The announcement reflects the growing recognition of digital mental health as a strategic priority within the UK’s life sciences and innovation agenda. Demand for services is at record levels, with NHS waiting lists continuing to rise. As of 2025, almost 1.7 million people were waiting for community-based support, such as psychologist or psychiatrist appointments.
Against this backdrop, government support for digital-first solutions signals a shift towards technologies capable of supplementing, and in some cases extending, the reach of traditional clinical services.
For companies, the path to adoption will require more than technological promise. Innovators will need to demonstrate safety, clinical efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. Regulatory approval, alongside evaluation of real-world impact, will be central to whether these early-stage projects progress from pilot schemes to wider deployment.
Equitable access will also be critical. The Government has emphasised the potential for digital tools to bridge gaps in provision, but achieving this will require attention to digital literacy, local infrastructure, and consistency of service across NHS organisations.
The funding forms part of the government’s recently launched 10-Year Health Plan, which sets out ambitious measures to strengthen mental health provision in England.
Innovate UK funding is expected to support development and early-stage trials over the next 12 to 18 months. If successful, the projects will progress in partnership with NHS organisations and regulated providers, moving towards wider deployment and providing patients with accessible, practical digital mental health support across the UK.
The Author used AI in preparing this article, comments upon, or questions about which can be addressed to chris.whitehouse@whitehousecomms.com.
