A new initiative aims to transform hospital experiences in the UK with sustainable patient wear.
- Olivia Burns, a graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University, creates hospital gowns to enhance patient comfort and dignity.
- Her project, Hypoplas, addresses inefficiencies in traditional hospital apparel through innovative designs.
- Funding from Innovate UK and a Santander award advances her mission.
- Olivia prepares to pitch her ideas globally, with ongoing research and development guiding her efforts.
Olivia Burns, a 25-year-old with a personal history of congenital heart conditions, is pioneering change in hospital apparel. Her company, Hypoplas, focuses on improving patient experiences in hospitals across the UK by offering sustainable and cost-effective garments. Olivia’s journey began with her own challenges, having undergone multiple surgeries as a child. These experiences highlighted the inadequacies of traditional hospital gowns, prompting her to conduct a comprehensive study in collaboration with the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.
In her research, Olivia identified significant issues with standard hospital gowns. Many hospitals resort to double gowning for dignity, increasing laundry loads and environmental impact. To solve these problems, Olivia introduced the Inversus gown and a recovery wear range. Her designs aim to preserve patient modesty while enhancing comfort from pre-operation through recovery. Her hard work and innovative approach have garnered significant attention, leading to funding from Innovate UK and recognition through the Santander Universities UK Entrepreneur Award.
Looking to scale Hypoplas nationwide, Olivia joined the TiE UK North and participated in the TiE Women Global Program & Pitch Competition 2024. Her success at the regional level allows her to pitch at the Global Grand Finale at the TiE Global Summit in Bangalore, India. Despite the competition’s intensity, Olivia emphasizes the importance of experience and networking gained throughout the process. “Winning is not the primary goal,” she noted, “but embracing the experience and opportunities is.”
Olivia’s dedication to innovation and entrepreneurship is recognized by peers and industry leaders. Simon Arora, a TiE Charter Member and judge of the competition, praised her drive and capacity for meaningful impact. Looking forward, Olivia is keen on completing the Hypoplas pilot study to validate the product’s viability. The insights gained will be critical as she plans for further investment rounds, including potential angel or venture capital funding within a year.
Olivia Burns’ endeavors illustrate the intersection of personal experience and innovation, aiming to redefine patient care standards in healthcare.
