Easy does it as hanger wins gadgets award

LIFE-ALTERING gadgets based on clothes hangers, screwdrivers and a lid opener may sound like a plot twist from classic 80s show MacGyver, but they can have just as vital an impact on someone outside the fictional TV world.

As part of its second annual Easy To Use awards, Arthritis Ireland has applauded tools based on all three items developed with the sole purpose of improving Ireland’s estimated 40,000 rheumatoid arthritis sufferers’ living standards.

Now in their second year, the awards have been organised to encourage student designers to develop everyday products of benefit to people living with disabilities and potentially have their products made.