A Cadgwith couple have developed and launched a revolutionary new product designed to help visually impaired people when using disabled access facilities.

Helen Kemp and Steve Holyer invented the ADi RoomMate after living with Steve’s degenerative sight condition for almost 15 years and suffering the indignity and embarrassment using disabled access toilets often caused them.

Helen said: “When we’re out, I have to accompany Steve to the toilet, so I can explain where everything is. We’ve often experienced sniggering and dirty looks when we’ve come out, which is totally embarrassing for both of us.”

Steve, who is now registered blind, added: “I’ve had real difficulties in the past and it has stopped me going to places. Having to be shown where things are by someone else means you’re in their hands, which isn’t easy. Toilets are one place where people like to have their privacy, and we’re denied that, so hopefully our product will start to address it.”

Using ground-breaking technology the ADi RoomMate has been developed by local Cornish businesses Sellectronics, Embedded Engineering and Cabin Fever Audio Productions.

Each mains-powered unit contains a pre-recorded audio script, specifically tailored for the room it will be fitted in, and delivers audio descriptive information to help users navigate facilities and locate static fixtures in the room, such as the toilet, basin and hand dryer.

In addition to launching their new product and company ADi Access, Helen and Steve also outlined details of their crowdfunding campaign and announced Melissa Reid, the visually impaired para-triathlete and World Aquathon Champion competing for Great Britain, as company patron.

Speaking at the launch, Melissa said: “I think the ADi RoomMate is a really great idea. I’m lucky in that I have some sight but I know some of my blind team mates have problems, so I think it’s an amazing product and I’m happy to be supporting it.”

Kim Conchie, chief executive of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, also attended ADi Access’ launch event to show his support. He said: “I think it’s magnificent. It’s one of those things where you have a lightbulb moment and think 'Yes.' It has a universal application and I love Cornwall to be leading from the edge, so when we can do things that have a social good as well as being a brilliant business opportunity, I’m delighted.”

The ADi Access team will now focus on reaching their £20,000 crowdfunding target, which will help fund production of the first ADi RoomMates and allow individuals, businesses and communities to support the project and determine where the initial units will be installed.

Helen said: “I think the launch went particularly well. I’m really pleased with how people took the idea on board and got involved with our demos, to see how the unit worked for themselves. Our Crowdfunder campaign has been doing well already, and I think we’ve generated a bit of a buzz, so I can’t wait to see what happens next.”

To support the ADi Access Crowdfunder campaign, or to find out more about ADi Access, visit www.adiaccess.co.uk.