A London-based health tech startup working with the University of Cambridge has received £415,000 in funding for an AI-powered special education identification software platform.
Cogs AI, which specialises in designing software for young people with special educational needs, has received the funding in the form of a grant from Innovate UK, the government-backed agency for supporting innovative businesses.
Its latest software product is an assessment for use by parents, educators and health professionals to assess children for special education and mental health services. The company claims its process is efficient and can ease the pressure on schools and NHS services.
Cogs AI said that waiting times for autism assessments, among others, have risen by 40% in the past year.
The software uses a machine learning algorithm to select questions that are specifically relevant to the individual, based on previous answers, creating what the company claims is a faster and more personal experience than traditional testing.
“There is a widening gap in provision for those children who have additional needs but aren’t being put forward for full SEND support, and those children who are spending months, if not years, on waiting lists”, said Zareen Ali, co-founder and CEO of Cogs AI.
“We are confident that this new technology will transform the way those additional support needs are identified and provide parents and schools with the information they need to support their children’s academic development and wellbeing.”