Hundreds more children with limb loss set to benefit from prosthetics

Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF) welcomes the news that children with limb loss will benefit from a further £1.5 million funding for sports and activity prosthetics.

This is the next stage of a government fund that has supported 220 disabled children since its launch in March 2016. It means more children who have suffered limb loss or who were born with a limb deficiency will benefit from prosthetics such as running blades.

The fund also promises to support research and innovation to improve prosthetic technology.

Minister of State for Care, Caroline Dinenage, who made today’s announcement, said: “Hundreds of children have already benefited from the fund, and this additional investment will now help open up even more possibilities for children with limb loss, and hopefully ignite in them a lifelong passion for sport.”

Rob Dawson, Director of Support at MRF said, “About one third of people who survive meningitis and septicaemia will be left with after-effects, including life-changing amputations. It’s important for all children to be able to take part in sports and other activities that increase their confidence and reduce the feelings of isolation that many survivors can experience. This fund will make a positive difference to many lives.”

Details about how NHS limb centres can apply for funding to source the prosthetic limbs from suppliers and fit them are available here.