Nicola Cassidy

Nicola Cassidy is the founder of PTSD Hub, a digital platform providing mental health support for people with PTSD. Her journey to creating mental health technology was shaped by her experience with PTSD in 2016, when she faced an 18-month wait for therapy.

PTSD affects 1 in 20 people in the UK, yet 70% receive no professional help. With approximately 2 million PTSD sufferers nationwide and extensive therapy waiting times, there’s an urgent need for accessible support. PTSD Hub’s app, which has already reached 13 000 downloads, offers immediate peer support and practical coping strategies to bridge the gap while awaiting professional care.

“Having experienced first-hand the isolation of waiting for PTSD therapy, I’m passionate about creating technology that ensures no one has to cope alone,” says Nicola. “Through PTSD Hub, I’m attempting to connect the power of peer support and AI to give people the coping strategies they need, when they need them most.”

Her achievements include co-leading a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) funded project with Manchester University validating how peer-supported interventions can improve mental health outcomes. The app she developed in 2018 has helped thousands access support while waiting for care.

“This award validates not only the innovation, but the importance of ensuring people don’t have to face PTSD alone,” says Nicola.

“When I was younger, women in tech weren’t seen as the ‘norm’ – it was a barrier that kept me from entering this field until much later in life,” Nicola reflects. “Then came my experience with PTSD, and ironically, having nothing left to lose stripped away my fear of being laughed at or dismissed.”

Her advice to aspiring women innovators? “Don’t let fear of being dismissed or being ‘different’ hold you back – those unique perspectives and experiences you bring are exactly what innovation needs.”

For more information on Women in Innovation

Find out more about the Women in Innovation Award and other support available across the Innovate UK ecosystem on the Women in Innovation programme page.