Researchers developing a ‘Smart Suit’ for people with muscular dystrophy and other progressive diseases have been awarded £1.25 million. The People’s Postcode Lottery have awarded the grant to charities Spinal Muscular Atrophy UK, Duchenne UK and the Liverpool University, Inclusionaries Lab.

The exoskeleton will provide support, while remaining light-weight and breathable under clothing, by utilising micro electric motor technology. The collaboration hope that the suit will provide independence and dignity to wearers, easing the difficulty of everyday activities such as eating and social interaction. Testing will prioritise functionality, inclusivity and desirability.

The disease predominantly affects boys, causing muscle to gradually waste away, affecting walking and upper-body movement. The aim is to progress past the research and development phase, where the majority of such innovation stalls.