Technology

Posted on February 25, 2019 by staff

Expansion for health tech firm behind VR radiation therapy

Technology

A MedTech company which creates VR-based radiation therapy training has announced that it is expanding.

Based in Hull, Vertual provides VR training in radiation therapy for both patients and medical staff, helping patients to understand the experience of treatment.

Formed in 2007, the firm has now moved into a new home at Anchor House in Silvester Street.

“We’re currently enjoying a period of accelerated growth and we’re hoping to capitalise on this success by entering new markets in the US, South America, China and South East Asia,” said Debra Leeves, recently appointed as Vertual’s first chief executive.

“Hull has proven to be a great place for Vertual to do business because we can access the exact type of staff we need – particularly software coders and developers – thanks to the Computer Science courses offered by the University of Hull.

“Our move to Anchor House will allow us to expand and we’re expecting to create up to 10 new positions across the business this year, with further job opportunities also expected in the future. We’re delighted to be relocating – it’s very exciting times.”

The virtual reality systems also provide immersive training for radiographers and physicists, enabling them to practice complex procedures without the need for a real patient.

Launched following a joint project between the University of Hull and the Hull & East Yorkshire NHS Trust, the tech is now used by more than 140 institutions in over 30 countries.

Ben Cooper, director at PPH, concluded the deal. He added: “Vertual wanted a modern, vibrant office space and the former Hull Brewery building is perfect after recently enjoying a significant investment and refurbishment by the property owners.

“Last year saw us complete a 10,000 sq ft letting to Enact Conveyancing and let a ground floor suite to Optical Express.

“A refurbished suite of 1,500sqft remains available and the third floor is currently undergoing a full refurbishment, which will also be available on completion of the works.

“It is great to see the owner’s significant investment in this building coming to fruition.”

Vertual hopes its move into The Maltings development, in Hull city centre, will accelerate its expansion plans – creating up to 10 new jobs during the next 12 months.