A social enterprise using AI technology to support people suffering with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions is using a £200,000 investment to work with community and leisure centres across the UK.
Bristol-based Good Boost received the funding at the end of last year from City Funds, an impact investment fund managed by West of England social investor BBRC.
It has enabled the organisation to partner with around 22 new community and leisure venues in the wider Bristol region, helping an estimated 155 participants per venue over a year.
The lead partner in the Government-funded ‘MSK Hubs’ programme, Good Boost primarily works with community and leisure centres to provide its equipment and services for sessions to be delivered to people in the community in need of support.
The organisation designs, develops and manufactures hardware and software that creates a unique approach combining AI with bespoke hardware to facilitate in-person, community-led exercise sessions and virtual at-home sessions to support people with MSK issues in desperate need.
The investment means it will also be able to carry out outreach work in at least three community venues across Bristol, particularly in high-deprivation areas, working with venues to create an affordable concessionary rate for people on low incomes and a free, virtual service to users with a Bristol or Bath postcode.
Ben Wilkins, chief executive of Good Boost, said the funding from BBRC came at a time when many people were struggling with their day-to-day lifestyle and really in need of help.
“The investment will significantly help us expand our practices, in line with community venues, to provide sophisticated guided support to those individuals struggling with MSK conditions, as well as providing a sense of community support,” he added.
Jari Moate, investment director at BBRC, added: “We are immensely proud to support Good Boost with its innovative approach to using AI for community health.
“This investment lines up perfectly with our mission to foster social impact, by enabling Good Boost to enhance the wellbeing of people across the Bristol region, particularly those affected by musculoskeletal conditions.”
The scale of MSK issues in the UK has grown massively in recent years. More than 30m working days are lost every year due to MSK conditions and they account for up to 30% of GP consultations in England.
NHS data highlights that waiting lists for MSK services in the UK are currently 14 weeks.
Good Boost sessions can be delivered in any pool, gym or leisure space by any member of staff or without staff. To the individuals attending, the peer-led sessions ensure users stay motivated with people who share their experiences, and by supporting venues with limited staff numbers, Good Boost can bring in new members for venues creating additional revenue.
Place-based impact investor BBRC operates across the South West with a mission to improve the wellbeing of people, local communities and the environment.
It focuses on unlocking investment, delivering impact and supporting purpose-driven businesses within three core areas – housing, net zero and community wellbeing.