Aiden Westcott from Bournemouth has developed Safe2Sharp, a tamper-resistant pencil sharpener designed to reduce the risks associated with exposed blades in traditional models.
The device is intended for use in schools, mental health facilities, custodial settings and homes any environment where easy access to sharp objects could pose a safeguarding concern.
Safe2Sharp pencil sharpeners (Image: Aiden Westcott)
Mr Westcott said: “I have spent several years volunteering within a public sector organisation, further strengthening my passion for safeguarding, community safety, and supporting vulnerable individuals.
“Traditional pencil sharpeners often provide easy access to exposed blades, which can present safeguarding concerns within schools, SEND provisions, mental health settings, custodial environments, and even within the home.
“Safe2Sharp has been designed to address this issue whilst still allowing users to independently sharpen their pencils.”
Aiden said he developed the product after spending a decade working with children and young people across the South Coast, gaining insight into the real-world challenges faced by educational and care settings.
Mr Westcott said: “As someone who has dedicated much of my career to supporting young people, I am incredibly proud to have developed a practical solution that could make a real difference within educational and care environments.”
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