York based Amelia started Cool Crutches in 2006 with her mother Clare, after she suffered a spinal injury in a quad bike accident that left her partially paralysed from the waist down. She was unhappy with the NHS crutches she had to use, which were uncomfortable, and not suitable for long-term use.

She decided to create her own crutches that were lightweight, comfortable and stylish. Since then, Cool Crutches has grown into a successful online business that sells crutches and walking sticks in various designs and colours. The company has received positive feedback from customers who appreciate the quality, comfort and style of the products, and have been used by celebrities such as Amanda Holden, Olly Murs and Dame Prue Leith.

Amelia was one of the 12 finalists of the NWEW 2023, the first UK-wide celebration of female-led businesses, which took place from the 20th-22nd June. She was given the award by the Prime Minister’s wife, Akshata Murty after she impressed the judges with her story of resilience, creativity and passion, and resulted in her winning funding for her business.

Alison Cork MBE, the founder of NWEW and Make It Your Business comments: “Amelia was a natural and worthy winner of the first ever Women’s Launch Lab. Great product, huge potential and a natural entrepreneur. “

She says she is thrilled and honoured to receive the recognition and support from NWEW, and hopes to use the funding to expand her product range and reach more customers who need walking aids. 

“I’m very grateful for this opportunity and for all the people who have supported me,” she says. “I want to show that having a disability or a chronic condition doesn’t have to stop you from pursuing your dreams and making a difference!”