Digital platform secures £1.2m to advance trauma support for frontline workers
A pioneering digital platform, dedicated to trauma prevention and management for frontline professionals, has secured funding of £1.2m from investors.
Sentinel has gained investment from SFC Capital, the University of Strathclyde and Scottish Enterprise. The funding round marks a major milestone in the company’s mission to deliver evidence-based, accessible support for people exposed to trauma in high-stress working environments, including healthcare, emergency services and defence.
SFC Capital, the UK’s most active early-stage investor, leads the round, alongside strategic investment from Strathclyde, whose partnership has been instrumental in shaping Sentinel’s research-led development. Scottish Enterprise, Scotland’s national economic development agency, also joins as a key investor.
More than 1,000 frontline workers have contributed to the platform’s development through primary research and testing, ensuring that every feature reflects real-world challenges and needs.
The app, developed in partnership with Strathclyde’s Department of Psychological Sciences and Health, integrates the latest insights in neuroscience, digital health and trauma-informed design.
Sentinel CEO Mykay Kamara said: “The wellbeing of those who serve on the front lines is paramount. Sentinel exists to ensure that the people who protect and care for others receive the same care in return. This investment allows us to expand our impact and further develop our evidence-based tools for trauma prevention, management and recovery.”
Strathclyde made its investment through the Strathclyde Inspire Entrepreneurship Fund and the money was drawn from the University’s Stephen Young Entrepreneurship Awards.
Anne Henderson, Head of Investment at Strathclyde, said: “Our collaboration with Sentinel exemplifies Strathclyde’s commitment to research that delivers real-world impact. By combining cutting-edge psychological science with practical digital innovation, we are helping to foster resilience and post-traumatic growth among people exposed to trauma in their work.
“We are delighted to support Sentinel through the Strathclyde Inspire Entrepreneurs Fund and look forward to working closely with Mykay and the team as they grow and extend their positive impact globally.”
Derek Shaw, Director of Entrepreneurship and Investment at Scottish Enterprise, said: “This investment highlights our dedication to supporting the growth of ambitious business with scalable solutions. Scotland is a global leader in digital health and care and backing innovative companies such as Sentinel is key to maintaining that position and driving long-term economic impact.”
Adam Beveridge, Principal of SFC Capital, said: “Investing in Sentinel aligns with our mission to back startups driving meaningful change. The platform’s focus on mental health for frontline workers is both urgent and impactful, and we’re delighted to be part of their journey.”
The Sentinel app is available globally via major app stores and is currently being piloted across several NHS Trusts, where it supports staff wellbeing and workplace resilience initiatives.