This case study explores the journey of Angela Davidson, founder of TinkleGuard Ltd, and her innovative urine collection device for babies and young children. We'll delve into the challenges Angela faced, the unmet clinical need she identified, and how Durham City Incubator (DCI) played a pivotal role in supporting her entrepreneurial spirit.

Q: Can you tell us about TinkleGuard and the problem it addresses?

Angela: TinkleGuard Ltd has created a urine collection device designed to improve the process of obtaining urine samples from babies and young children. This is needed because current ‘urine pad’ methods (which are used in hospitals, care settings and by parents at home) often result in contaminated samples - due to skin contact and from other waste in nappies; this requires repeated tests.  Also, the sample contamination can sometimes lead to ‘false positives’ and unnecessary antibiotic treatments. This is not only extremely stressful for families and clinicians but also places a significant burden on healthcare resources.

Our Tinkleguard® Urine Collection device aims to provide an accurate urine sample; speeding up diagnosis, reducing extended hospital stays and improving patient safety, by getting it right first time.

Q: What inspired you to create this product?

Angela: The idea for TinkleGuard® came from my own experience as a grandparent. I struggled to get a clean urine sample from my poorly, young grandchild, which was incredibly stressful due to repeated contaminations and long wait times. After reading an article in Nursing Times that highlighted similar frustrations among clinicians (who reported that re-taking of urine samples can be up to three times), I knew there had to be a better way. That experience set me on a path to develop a solution.

Q: How did you go about developing TinkleGuard®?

Angela: It's been a long journey, which I’ve been on alongside my career as a primary school teacher. After my retirement, I dedicated myself full-time to this project. I collaborated with doctors at a local NHS Hospital, who recognised the unmet need and supported my efforts. I also attended various training courses, including one from the Royal Academy of Engineering, which supported me with grant funding and helped me understand the innovation and product development process. Throughout this journey, I've consulted with experts to refine the product.

Q: How has Durham City Incubator (DCI) helped you in this journey?

Angela: DCI has been instrumental in my progress. They provided a supportive environment where I could share ideas and get feedback. Being part of a diverse group of entrepreneurs and experts has been incredibly encouraging. The DCI team, have regularly checked in with me, helping me stay on track and navigate challenges. They've also helped me develop essential skills like creating a value proposition, business planning, and pitching to investors.

Q: What specific support has DCI provided?

Angela: DCI's support has been multifaceted. They've offered both group and one-on-one coaching, which has been invaluable. I received assistance in creating a digital marketing plan and I’m currently working on the design of a new website. The program also helped me understand the business support ecosystem and how to become investor ready. Moreover, the encouragement and validation from the DCI team and my peers have been crucial in keeping me motivated.

Q: What are your next steps for TinkleGuard®?

Angela: Work is in process to build a great website and develop our marketing messages. Moving forward, I plan to explore funding streams more deeply. I aim to bring on board investors and mentors who can contribute their expertise, particularly in taking the product to market in both NHS and private sectors. We need to finalise manufacturing and production for a batch of prototypes, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and conduct the agreed evaluation trials in a local NHS Hospital. Additionally, I plan to gather feedback from end users and conduct market research with private care providers.

Q: What broader applications do you see for TinkleGuard®?

Angela: While the initial focus is on babies, there's potential for TinkleGuard® to be used with the elderly, dementia patients, and individuals with cognitive impairments. These groups also face challenges with obtaining uncontaminated urine samples if they are incontinent, and our device could significantly improve the accuracy and ease of sample collection – leading to better health outcomes for them too.

Q: What advice would you give to someone considering joining DCI?

Angela: I highly recommend the DCI program. It offers a wealth of encouragement and validation, making it a wonderful process for any entrepreneur. The support from the DCI team and the wider cohort is incredibly motivating, and the quality of the coaching and specialist input is top-notch. For anyone looking to develop their business idea, DCI provides the resources and community to make that journey less daunting and more successful.

Q: How do you feel about the progress you've made so far?

Angela: I'm proud of the progress I’ve made. Developing a product can be a lonely journey, but with DCI's support, I've been able to stay focused and motivated. The endorsement of my idea and the skills I've gained through this program have been invaluable. I'm excited about the future of TinkleGuard® and the impact it will have on improving healthcare outcomes for vulnerable patient groups.

If you have a groundbreaking idea and are looking for the support to bring it to life, Durham City Incubator could be the catalyst you need. Just as DCI has helped Angela Davidson turn TinkleGuard® into a transformative solution in paediatric healthcare, they can provide you with the mentorship, resources, and community to realise your vision.

Discover more about how DCI can support your entrepreneurial journey and start transforming your ideas today. Visit www.dcincubator.co.uk to learn more and get involved.