Unmet need: People with disabilities or neurological impairment who require use of a commode often have difficulty undertaking intimate self-care after toileting. The loss of independence can have profound effects on an individual's feeling of self-worth and toileting is a task that many carers, professional or otherwise, feel uncomfortable providing.

Solution: D4D helped Mr Speechley to develop The Dignity Bidet Commode. The Dignity Bidet Commode is self-controlled, can wash and dry its user without the need for assistance and offers a dignified alternative to the traditional product. D4D helped Mr Speechley to develop his prototype with a team of clinical design engineers, and assisted with ensuring safety and hygiene standards were met.

When Andy Speechley developed the Dignity Bidet Commode to help his friend Peter retain some independence following a stroke, it made a huge difference to Peter's life.

The traditional style of commode Peter was using caused him upset and humiliation, meaning he had to be cleaned by his daughter - this prompted Mr Speechley to come up with a solution that could give his friend back his dignity.

The Dignity Bidet Commode is self-controlled, can wash and dry its user without the need for assistance - and offers a dignified alternative to the traditional product.

D4D helped Mr Speechley to develop his prototype with a team of clinical design engineers at the Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield. From there, the team at D4D assisted with ensuring safety and hygiene standards were met.

"Initially I was just looking for validation from an organisation within the NHS that I was doing the right thing. In fact, they provided so much more with device-development expertise and prototyping assistance and facilities - supporting me in making my vision a reality."

The Dignity Bidet Commode, with a water reservoir which can last for 1 day, does not need to be plumbed in and only requires access to a power socket. It is CE marked under Low Voltage Directive (LVD).

It is being manufactured by commercial partner Gordon Ellis & Co and was showcased at the national NHS Innovation Expo 2011, providing exposure to medical professionals who are now referring the product to their patients.

The Dignity Commode is currently available in the market through Gordon Ellis Ltd. A regional service evaluation trial in South Yorkshire is ongoing.