WMG Academy student invents transfer aid that could change lives

A WMG Academy Solihull student with a passion for engineering has earned national recognition – thanks to an invention that could transform lives.

Year 12 student Grace Palmer came up with the idea of designing a transfer aid to help people with conditions such as cerebral palsy, having witnessed the challenges faced by her cousin Dylan.

Grace saw first hand the difficulty Dylan and his family face in accessing essential equipment to help him transfer safely or sit independently.

Determined to make a difference, she channelled her curiosity and creativity into engineering - designing a solution that could help not just her family, but others in need.

She created the Thrive Transfer Aid, a multi-functional product that costs just £85 – significantly less than previously available equipment.

She said: “It all started with one idea at the end of last year, inspired by one little boy: my cousin Dylan, who has cerebral palsy.

“I saw the challenges Dylan and my family were facing when trying to find equipment to help him transfer, be carried safely, or sit independently at a table.

“The equipment we needed would have cost around £750 - something our family, like many others, simply could not afford. So, I decided to make my own.

“That’s what started my journey with the Thrive Transfer Aid. I wanted something not just for my family, but for other families who need it, because everyone should have access to essential equipment regardless of income.”

Having come up with the idea for the Thrive Transfer Aid, Grace was invited to Parliament where she had the opportunity to talk to MPs and Ministers.

Grace added: “I joined WMG Academy Solihull almost four years ago with very little confidence, but with one spark inspired by Dylan that pushed me toward engineering to help people.

“I have changed a lot since Year 10, and my confidence has grown significantly. I have gained many skills that are incredibly useful for my future career as an engineer.

“It was a very rewarding event where I got to see the most amazing and historic building of Parliament.

“ I then set up my display with information about my project and began to talk to different ministers and MPs.

“I also spoke to many different companies and T-Level advocators.

“Completing my speech, I spoke about the main lesson I have learnt about engineering which is this - engineering often begins with empathy; when we understand people’s challenges, we can create products that truly change lives.”

A spokesperson for WMG Academy said: “We are immensely proud of Grace for representing WMG Academy Solihull on a national stage and for demonstrating the power of empathy driven engineering.

“Her achievements highlight the spirit of creativity, determination, and social responsibility that we strive to nurture in every student, and we look forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to make a positive impact in the world.”

Pictured: From left - Dame Chi Onwurah (Labour MP for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West), Grace Palmer, Hilary Leevers (CEO of Engineering UK) and Toby Perkins (Labour MP for Chesterfield)