Leeds healthtech firm secures £6m investment
Leeds-based paediatric healthtech company Little Journey has raised £6m to expand its digital tools supporting children through medical care.
The Series A investment will support the commercial growth and product development of the company’s cloud-based platform, which helps children and caregivers prepare for medical procedures and clinical trials.
Little Journey’s mobile app uses interactive digital content and virtual reality to reduce anxiety before treatment. It delivers personalised, procedure-specific information aligned with local NHS pathways and is used in 49 NHS hospitals.
Dr Chris Evans, co-founder and CEO, said: “We are delighted to have secured this investment from Foresight, which will accelerate Little Journey’s product development and commercial expansion.
“We look forward to working with the Foresight team to continue to deliver our mission of supporting all children to better health through personalised care,” said
Founded in 2018, the company initially focused on reducing pre-procedural anxiety.
In 2021, it expanded into the global life sciences sector to support engagement in paediatric clinical trials — an area where recruiting and retaining young participants remains a significant challenge.
The funding will be used to accelerate commercial expansion, enhance the product suite, and strengthen marketing activities.
The company expects to create additional high-quality jobs in the region and continue its international growth strategy.
Investors in the round include Mercia, Octopus Ventures, Par Equity and others.
Foresight Group added £0.3m to complete the round and will provide growth capital, strategic advice and access to networks across healthcare, life sciences and digital technology sectors.
The leadership team includes Dr Evans, co-founder and chief product officer Sophie Copley, and chairman Nicolaus Henke, who bring experience in clinical care, digital design and healthcare strategy.
Louise Mackie, investment manager at Foresight Group, said: “Little Journey is delivering meaningful improvements in paediatric healthcare and clinical trials through its award-winning, innovative technology.
“With strong roots in the UK and growing global demand, we are delighted to be supporting the Little Journey team as they enter their next phase of growth.”
