Three cheers for Naidex’s inaugral Style Awards!

As we all know, many products aimed at older people or people with disabilities are ugly or clinical rather than attractive or trendy. But there is a growing demand for independent living solutions that deliver on appearance as well as function. We at The Future Perfect Company are part of a growing movement who know that consumers believe that eye pleasing design and function are equally important. And this year at the Naidex National Healthcare Show (5-7th April, Birmingham NEC) a new Award was launched to find the most aesthetically pleasing products on offer.

The judges were television presenter and wheelchair basketball player Ade Adepitan, independent occupational therapist Nikki Chapman and co-founder of Enabled by Design,  Denise Stephens (who also judged our Designing for the Future Competition).  All three are passionate about finding well-designed assistive equipment and believe that great style is always achievable no matter what your disability.

Event Director Liz Virgo commented, “We feel that the Naidex Style Awards will show all visitors that it is possible to find stylish solutions for independent living, something that is becoming increasingly important. People are not only looking for products that function well and make life easier, but also products that look good, be that items of clothing, home equipment or mobility aids”.

The winners were an inclusive shower range by Plexicare and in second place  none other than the fabulous Trabasack.  “Designed by a busy mum and ‘design for all’ enthusiast Clare Edwards, Trabasack appeals to people of all ages and abilities and really stands out for stylish usability” said director Duncan Edwards.  Traditional, lap trays and lap desks are not usually known for their fashionable appeal, however, the beanbag tray or table with a pillow under it has been replaced by a new cool innovation: the Trabasack or lap tray bag.  ”"We shall be proudly displaying this award.” said Duncan. “Our designs are functional and attractive and used by a growing range of customers. As well as helping people who are wheelchair users, our biggest sales are to people using them for laptop bags, crafts and art and children using them in buggies and car seats. We also have a growing following of students and musicians since internet sensation Brett Domino began using Trabasacks in his videos. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xTwweLJ78KE”

Placed third in the Style Awards was a fashionable clothes protector called the Bibette which is more beautiful pashmina  than traditional bib.

The Style Awards are fantastic news not just for the winners but for all us consumers. It is about time the industry recognised that older and disabled people want products which are beautifully designed  as well as functional. Well done, Naidex!

Just one small gripe. Where’s the PR? Having heard the awards had been announced I could not find any information about the winners on the Naidex website and there seems to be very little in way of press releases – at least so far.  This is really good news and we should all be shouting about it!