News

The #ICan Adult Camp is back – and it’s bigger, bolder, and more empowering than ever. From 31st October to 3rd November 2025, adults living with an amputation or limb differences will come together at the stunning Calvert Trust Exmoor for four unforgettable days of adventure, connection, and growth.

Join LimbPower, the National Disability Sport Organisation supporting amputees and individuals with limb difference, for a full day of free live online exercise classes and exciting fitness challenges on Wednesday 24th September, in celebration of National Fitness Day 2025.

A powerful new resource has been launched to improve the quality, accessibility, and equity of prosthetic and orthotic (P&O) services across the UK. Developed by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO), the Service Provision Guidance for Prosthetic & Orthotic Services is being welcomed by service users, charities, and advocates as a long-overdue roadmap for change.

LimbPower is proud to announce the launch of its LimbPower Delivery Pathway, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support amputees and individuals with limb difference throughout their lifelong rehabilitation and engagement journey. Recognising that living with limb loss or limb difference is a non-linear and lifelong experience, the new pathway offers a structured, inclusive, and empowering framework that individuals can enter or re-enter at any stage, depending on their personal needs and goals.

LimbPower Announces the Launch of Project Limitless 2.0 to Support Children with Limb Differences LimbPower is thrilled to announce the launch of Project Limitless 2.0, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing every child in the UK who needs one with a free cycling Koalaa prosthetic. This ambitious project is made possible through the collaboration of remarkable charities, generous donors, and esteemed partners, including Koalaa and British Cycling.

This April marks Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month (LLLDAM) 2025, a nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness, celebrating resilience, and fostering community among amputees and individuals with limb difference.

LimbPower Announces the 2025 Junior Games: A Celebration of Young Athletic Spirit At the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium, in Aylesbury on Saturday 10th May 2025. LimbPower is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated LimbPower Junior Games, scheduled for Saturday, 10th May 2025, at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium. This annual event is dedicated to empowering children and young people aged 4-18 with an amputation or limb difference through the joy of sport.

The LimbPower Games 2025, is the UK’s premier multi-sport event for amputees and individuals with limb difference. Taking place on 31st May and 1st June 2025 at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium, this empowering weekend promises an unforgettable experience filled with sport, connection, and community.

We are thrilled to announce the development of a groundbreaking initiative: the UK Limb Difference Research Community. This community aims to bring together amputees, individuals with limb differences, their supporters, industry professionals, and researchers in the field of prosthetics to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment.

LimbPower is excited to announce the launch of our new Children's Activity Cards, designed specifically for children with upper and lower limb differences. And amputation/s. These 31 activity cards, created by amputees and individuals with limb difference for amputees and individuals with limb difference, offering a fun and engaging way for children to stay active and develop fundamental movement skills all from the comfort of home or school.

LimbPower is proud to celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and European Limb Loss Day on Tuesday 3rd December, aligning with the theme "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future." This theme underscores the vital role that persons with disabilities, especially amputees and individuals with limb differences, play in fostering a more inclusive and sustainable world. LimbPower is dedicated to achieving these goals through dedicated pathways, initiatives and programmes.

Are you a new amputee looking to enhance your rehabilitation journey? Don’t miss LimbPower’s “Beyond Boundaries” workshop on Saturday, 30th November at Oxted Community Hall in Surrey. This must-attend event offers advanced rehabilitation techniques, promoting physical, mental, and social well-being in a supportive community setting.

LimbPower is thrilled to announce two upcoming Fundamental Skills Workshops aimed at children aged 5-18 with limb impairments. These events are designed to help children build confidence, learn new skills, and have fun while meeting others with similar disabilities.

National Fitness Day Celebrates Record Participation LimbPower’s online National Fitness Day programme saw an incredible turnout this year with 203 participants with limb differences registering for the event, doubling the number from 2023. The day was packed with a variety of engaging classes, including Warm-Up Wobble, Paracise, Tai Chi, Zumba, HIIT, Pirate After School Session for children, Dance, and a reVAMP taster session.

Join us for an Exciting Celebration on National Fitness Day! Mark your calendars for September 18th, 2024, and get ready to embark on a lifelong fitness journey with us! This isn’t just about one day; it’s about embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle for life. Let’s come together to support individuals with limb differences and empower them on their path to better health and wellness. ????

LimbPower, a leading national charity and National Disability Sports Organisation dedicated to supporting amputees and individuals with limb impairments, has launched its highly anticipated “Active August” campaign. This year’s theme, “Everyday Champions: Embrace Your Inner Athlete,” celebrates the spirit of Paralympic sports and encourages everyone, regardless of their age and ability, to engage in physical activities inspired by these incredible athletes and everyday community champions.

LimbPower has partnered with England Athletics, UKA (United Kingdom Athletics), and BACPAR (British Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Amputee Rehabilitation) to develop tthe Top Tips for Athletics for providers.

LimbPower Announces the 2024 Junior Games: A Celebration of Young Athletic Spirit LimbPower is thrilled to announce the return of the much-anticipated LimbPower Junior Games, scheduled for Saturday, 6th July 2024, at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium. This annual event, a highlight in the adaptive sports calendar, is dedicated to empowering children and young people aged 4-18 with an amputation or limb differences through the joy of sport. The LimbPower Junior Games, first held in 2013, have grown to become a cornerstone event that fosters inclusion, confidence, and camaraderie among participants. The 2024 games promise an array of sports, including Athletics, Cycling, Sitting Volleyball, Wheelchair Basketball, Swimming, Rowing, Canoeing, and Archery, all tailored to the abilities of young athletes with limb differences.

LimbPower, the leading charity dedicated to supporting amputees and individuals with limb differences, is proud to announce the launch of its LimbLife Campaign: "Embrace, Empower, Elevate," coinciding with Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month this April. ​

​The 2024 LimbPower Games and Exercise Event takes place on April 13th at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics.

Residential Activity Break for Adults with Limb Impairments Promises Three Days of Inclusive Adventures LimbPower, in collaboration with Fletchers Foundation, is proud to announce the upcoming #ICan Adult Camp, a transformative three-day residential activity break for adults with limb impairments. Sponsored by Fletchers Foundation, this unique camp is set to take place at the picturesque Calvert Trust in Exmoor.

Welcome to the Community Sport and Recreation Awards 2024: Inspiration of the Year The Inspiration of the Year category celebrates individuals in the sport and recreation sector who have inspired others through the support they have provided to their community during the past 12 months. If successful, the individual will win the award and their club will receive a £1000 cash prize.

LimbPower, in collaboration with England Athletics, British Athletics, and BACPAR, proudly announces the release of an innovative resource aimed at empowering children with amputations or limb differences. The Athletics Top Tips Infographic is a comprehensive guide designed to introduce and encourage inclusivity in athletics, showcasing the accessibility of the sport for individuals with diverse abilities.

We are thrilled to announce the outstanding success of wheelchair table tennis player Simon Heaps at the recent World AbilitySport Games held in Thailand. Despite facing numerous challenges, Simon showcased incredible resilience and skill, earning a well-deserved bronze medal in his category.

LimbPower, a leading advocate for amputees and limb-different individuals, proudly announces the successful completion of 'Make Every Contact Count' (MECC) training for our entire staff and key volunteers. This initiative aims to bolster community engagement and further support the well-being of beneficiaries. Additionally, LimbPower's CEO has attained qualification as a MECC trainer, reinforcing the organisation's commitment to driving positive change.

LimbPower, the National Disability Sports Organisation dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with limb loss or limb differences, is proud to announce the launch of its ground-breaking Amputee BMI Calculator. Designed with the specific needs of amputees and people with limb differences in mind, this innovative tool is set to transform the way these individuals measure and manage their health.

Keeping Your Child Safe in Sport is a national, year-round campaign run by the NSPCC Child Protection in Sport Unit (NSPCC CPSU) which aims to raise awareness of the important role parents play in keeping their child safe and happy in sport.

In a world where physical differences often pose challenges, LimbPower is at the forefront of redefining what's possible. Our upcoming workshops; the Fundamental Skills Workshop for children aged 4 to 18 and the Beyond Boundaries Workshop for adults, are not just events; they are transformative educational experiences that empower participants of all ages to embrace their capabilities, boost their confidence, and redefine the boundaries of rehabilitation and inclusion.

​National Fitness Day - Embrace Fitness and Empower Yourself! Join us for National Fitness Day on Wednesday 20th September promoting health, fitness, and inclusivity. As part of National Fitness Day, we will be running an online workshop on Wednesday, November 20th, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. This workshop is designed to support you on your fitness journey and empower you to improve your healthy habits. To sign-up follow this link https://NationalFitnessDay.eventbrite.co.uk

LimbPower, the National Disability Sports Organisation and registered charity dedicated to championing amputees and individuals with limb differences, is ecstatic to unveil its much-awaited series of "Prepare to Run" and "Prepare to Move" days! Prepare to be moved by these fantastic training programs, designed to empower amputees with essential exercises and techniques, enabling them to strut their stuff, run like the wind, and embrace active living on their everyday prosthetics and bespoke activity/running limbs.

The Ripple Effect project, funded by Spirit of 2012, aims to break down barriers for disabled individuals who want to become volunteers and encourage them to get involved with aquatic sports, more specifically in Technical Official roles.

LimbPower, the National Disability Sports Organisation for amputees and people with limb difference, is proud to announce the launch of a new series of 11 beneficiary videos that showcase different aspects of living with limb loss and limb difference. The videos feature children, young people and their families who have participated in LimbPower’s events and programmes, sharing their personal stories and experiences of engaging in school PE, making friends as a disabled person, negotiating family dynamics, and more.

The Law Tennis Association have today unveiled a major new campaign to inspire and engage children primarily aged 4-11 to play tennis. The LTA Tennisables, a group of six colourful tennis ball characters, will be incorporated into the established LTA Youth programme, to make tennis more engaging, accessible and fun for the next generation of players.

Introducing the Adventures of Captain Jetz and the limb different Pirate Crew – a brand-new animated series of exercise videos for children with upper and lower limb differences, which the whole family of buccaneers can join in! Join Captain Jetz and his crew of limb different pirates as they set sail on the Jolly Lolly on a journey filled with fitness, fun, and excitement!

The LimbPower Junior Games will be held at Stoke Mandeville Stadium on Saturday 15th July and registration is now OPEN! Come along and meet new friends, catch up with old friends or if you haven’t been before – make 2023 the first year of attending the LimbPower Junior Games – we know you will be back!

The LimbPower Games and Exercise event is a life changing opportunity for adult amputees and limb different participants to take part in Para sports and exercise delivered by specialist from the National Governing Bodies of sport and qualified coaches and exercise instructors. The Games takes place on the 8th and 9th July 2023 at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics. We are inviting 100 amputees and individuals with limb difference to join the 2023 LimbPower Games and Exercise Event. The Sports will take place in the `athletics Arena and Sports Hall and the exercise and dance programme will take place in the Olympic Lodge Dance Studio. The sessions take place in a relaxed, fun, educational and conducive environment with other amputees and people with limb difference. The event is an introduction to sport and exercise and forms part of the LimbPower pathway into activity for fitness and fun. The event can also be a first step into competition and an opportunity for participants to begin their journey into competitive sport enabling them to reach their sporting potential through an introduction to parasport.

​ukactive has released the latest consumer report as part of Everyone Can, which is designed to improve inclusion in the fitness and leisure sector, providing insight based on the sector’s most comprehensive survey of disabled people to date. One in five people in the UK are disabled, and 81% of disabled adults have indicated that they want to do more physical activity, the Everyone Can report provides an opportunity to improve millions of lives.

ParalympicsGB and Toyota have today announced the launch of the ground-breaking Every Body Moves initiative to empower disabled people to become active in a way that is right for them. Drawing on the lived experience of disabled people throughout the UK, Every Body Moves is an evolution of the award winning Parasport powered by Toyota platform which has grown to become the nation’s largest online destination connecting people with thousands of inclusive sporting and physical activities.

​LimbPower is inviting community members, friends, and supporters to take on the ’31 Miles This March’ challenge for FREE and to raise funds for LimbPower. What is miles for March This is an at-home fitness event that you can take part in locally to get fit in time for the summer or just to improve your physical and mental health. You can swim, run, push, or walk a mile or day or you can take part at any time in March – whichever way suits you. Did you know that one way to improve your self-esteem is to take on a challenge? Be prepared to take on something that is difficult to achieve. By succeeding you show yourself that you can achieve, so maybe challenge yourself to do more miles.

Since we launched ReVAMP in 2021 over 160 limb different people have benefited from this programme. When Jack Eyers (Lead instructor) and Kiera Roche LiimbPower CEO discussed this concept we envisioned a programme which would support amputees and individuals with limb difference with their fitness and well-being during the pandemic, the way Jack supported Kiera on her fitness journey.

British Blind Sport, funded by the Thomas Pocklington Trust and working with the University of Central Lancashire are publishing findings from a year-long study of blind and partially children and their motor competency skills. Physical activity is a significant predictor of health and wellbeing, yet 91% of children and young people with visual impairment (CYP-VI) spend their free time being sedentary; a figure that is significantly higher than their sighted peers.

On Saturday 3rd December 2022, supporting European Limb Loss Day and the International Day for Persons with a Disability LimbPower are running the advanced rehab Beyond Boundaries in-person workshop in Surrey.

The WheelPower Sports Festival will welcome disabled people of all ages to Brunel University Sports Centre, London on Tuesday 1 November for a day of sport and activity. Organised by WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport, and supported by the Middlesex Masonic Sports Association, this upcoming event provides a fantastic opportunity for anyone with a physical disability over the age of 5 to play wheelchair sport, make new friends, and mostly importantly have lots of fun.

On Wednesday 21st September LimbPower is offering a day of FREE online exercise classes for everyone with limb difference and their friends and partners to try, as part of National Fitness Day 2022 – which is set to be the UK’s most active day of the year. National Fitness Day, which takes place on Wednesday 21 September, will see a huge range of free events and taster sessions take place across the whole of the UK under the theme of “Fitness Unites Us”.

Join the charity LimbPower on 21st September for National Fitness Day for a day of FREE online live and pre-recorded exercise classes and some exciting fitness challenges. There will be bespoke adapted classes for community members of different ages, interests and abilities including Wobble, Paracise, Zumba and reVAMP.

LimbPower and British Cycling announce a new infographic to support coaches and instructors who work with children and young people with limb difference to engage in cycling. During the Covid-19 Pandemic, LimbPower and British Cycling worked on a collaborative project, speaking with children, their families, healthcare professionals, coaches and partnership organisations about how best to support children and young people with limb difference to take up cycling.

Today, CP Sport, DSAuk, WheelPower, British Blind Sport, Special Olympics GB and Limbpower are launching a joint press release ahead of the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. The charities present opportunities for children, young people and adults to take part in sport to maintain or start their activity levels. It is well recognised that physical activity is important for people with a disability as it improves mobility, supports mental health and provides an opportunity to create friendships. Being part of a community also has a positive impact on mental wellbeing, particularly after a lengthy period of people self-isolating and shielding.

LimbPower is excited to announce that we are adding four new classes to our online programme of fitness classes. All of our online fitness classes are FREE and run by specialists with knowledge around how to adapt exercises for amputees and individuals with limb difference.

Irwin Mitchell signed up as an official sponsor for the 2022 LimbPower Games and Exercise event to support this incredible programme. LimbPower’s first live multisport participation event since the Covid-19 Pandemic. Irwin Mitchel has an incredible track record in sporting disability sports projects and programmes and in supporting the rehabilitation of individuals with a physical impairment.

​News Release LimbPower are on Track for the 12th LimbPower Games and Exercise Event! LimbPower was created to empower amputees and people with a limb impairment to get active, get involved and get moving post impairment, whether the impairment is congenital or acquired. The LimbPower Games is designed to guide and support new amputees and individuals with limb impairments and individuals new to physical activity and sport to part and reap the physical, psychological and social benefits.

On Tuesday 28th June, British Paralympic swimmer and Paralympics GB's youngest medallist at Tokyo 2020, Ellie Challis joined National and International badminton player Meva Singh Dhesi, to summit the O2 Arena in aid of the charity LimbPower. This was a climb with a difference as Ellie took part in a wheelchair. After a two-year wait, the team were excited to finally take a wheelchair over the roof of the O2. A groundbreaking feat and another bucket list item ticked off.

On Saturday 21 May WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport welcomed a group of disabled people to Stoke Mandeville Stadium to experience a variety of fitness classes from Yoga to Tai Chi. Supported by Sport England and the National Disability Sport Organisations (LimbPower, CP Sport and Dwarf Sports Association) the event was the first of its kind to take place after the Covid 19 pandemic and it brought together physically disabled people and a group of qualified fitness coaches, many of whom had only met online via zoom before.

​Step up, put your best foot forward and walk the walk with us for LimbPower’s charity challenge hike on Exmoor's coastal path. LimbPower need you! This is a callout to all you amazing superhumans! If you are an amputee, or you know someone who is an amputee or has a limb difference, or if you'd like to support the amputee and limb difference community by partaking in a charity challenge - LimbPower has something for you! We are looking for people to join our team of disabled and non-disabled walkers for a sponsored 2-day Coastal Hike along Exmoor's magnificent and stunning coastal path on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th of September, 2022.

Three of the country’s largest prosthetic manufacturers; Steeper, Ottobock and Össur have combined their resources and expertise to support NHS Orthotist after a catastrophic accident changed his life forever. Married father of two, Jim Ashworth-Beaumont, 55 from Greenwich, London suffered horrific injuries as a result of an accident whilst training for the British Triathlon Championships in June 2020. After graduating from Strathclyde University, Jim started his career in 2000 as an Orthotist at Kings College London. In 2004 Jim moved to the Royal NationalOrthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) at Stanmore and remains there to this very day. “I relish the challenge of finding orthotic solutions for patients with complex needs”, said Jim.

The international games for blind and partially sighted athletes will take place in the second city in August 2023 Today (27th April) the countdown to the 2023 International Blind Sport Federation (IBSA) World Games, a multi-sport event for blind and partially sighted athletes, has officially begun in Birmingham, ahead of next summer’s event.

The LimbPower Games and LimbPower Junior Games take place in July 2022 at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. These 'have-a-go' multipsort events are life-changing. There is something for everyone, whether you or your child are a primary (new amputee) or you/your child were born with limb difference and are looking for a new activity to try. Our programme caters for orthotic, prosthetic and wheelchair users.

JOB DESCRIPTION The Sports Development Officer will engage with key partners and agencies about the delivery of LimbPower’s Sport England NDSO Programme. The post holder will increase participation in physical activity and sports supporting more amputees and adults with limb difference to take part in physical activity and sports activities across the country. Job Title: Sports Development Officer Responsible to: Chief Executive Salary Band: £24,000-28,000 Type of Contract: 5-year contract, with a six-monthly review. Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week - This will include evenings, weekends and public holidays. Employer: LimbPower (Registered Charity) Probationary Period: Six months Location: Home based working with regular national travel to run/attend workshops, events, meetings and conferences etc. . Transport: The successful candidate must have their own transport (National Travel is required).

LimbPower is inviting community members, family, friends and supporters to join our supercharged 'virtual event' - Spring into Action! 'Spring into Action' invites you, your friends and your family to sign up for a physical challenge of your choice this April, during Limb loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. This can be a daily challenge such as daily press-ups or on a single day challenge such as a 15K walk like Kiera and Rebecca, or you could try a couch to 5K, the choice is yours.

​Let the Games Begin On the 2nd and 3rd of July for the first time in two years, the LimbPower Games and Exercise event will be taking place at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics. We are so excited that the most anticipated event of the year for our community is going ahead! This event is the highlight of the year for many amputees and individuals with limb difference, who are looking to discover and progress in exercise, physical activity and sport. Over the years the LimbPower Games has helped hundreds of amputees and individuals with limb impairments to gain confidence, improve mobility and find a great new activity. The Games have even been responsible for starting some on the road to the Paralympics!

UK's Chief Medical Officers publish first ever guidelines on physical activity for disabled children and young people. New guidelines to support disabled children and young people to be more active Guidelines advise 20 minutes of exercise per day and strength and balance activity 3 times a week Supports wider work to tackle health disparities across the UK helping everyone lead healthier, happier lives.

LimbPower and British Cycling announce a new infographic to support children and young people with limb difference to engage in cycling.

A life-changing fitness and nutritional programme created to support amputees and individuals with limb difference with a unique 12-week course of adapted challenging exercise circuits and nutritional advice. We educate, support and guide limb different participants to achieve weight loss and increase physical exercise within a safe and controlled support network of; the LimbPower team, industry professionals and like-minded disabled people aiming to reach the same goal.

For European Limb Loss Day and the International Day for Persons with a Disability LimbPower will be running our first online interactive workshop for amputees and individuals with limb difference. Our bespoke and interactive Beyond Boundaries workshop will focus on engaging in exercise and physical activity with a focus on overcoming barriers to become more active with a mixture of dynamic live exercise classes and engaging presentations. All sessions have been selected to take you on a journey into activity and a healthier lifestyle.

LimbPower is excited about our new virtual Adaptive Fitness Fun sessions, running twice a week for young people with limb differences. These workout sessions are designed and presented by PT Liv, who was born with congenital upper limb difference.

During these 12 weeks, this reVAMP programme guides participants to make better dietary choices and teach adapted exercise routines specifically targeted for amputees or people with limb differences. We offer up-to-date advice on recommended life-swaps and changes to daily routines to improve overall health and fitness leading to improved mental health, mobility and physical health for life.

LimbPower is excited about our virtual Adaptive Fitness Fun sessions twice a week for young people with limb differences. These workout sessions are designed and presented by PT Liv, who was born with congenital upper limb difference.

Para Dance UK the NGB for Para Dance Sport and Inclusive Dance and LimbPower the National Disability Sports Organisation for amputees and individuals with limb impairments, have come together to enable more of our community to dance, using the knowledge of both organisations we have develop materials for children, young people and the wider community that may not or cannot get out into the community, but still want to keep active.

Sport in Mind has launched a new self-help journal for people experiencing mental health problems. ​Mental Health Awareness Week is an annual campaign that helps educate and increase awareness about mental health issues and the fact that millions of people will struggle with their mental health each year.

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) in partnership with British Blind Sport have received £1m in funding from Sport England for three years to develop participation in sport amongst people with sight loss.

Spring into Action! - LimbPower's supercharged 'virtual event' taking place throughout May and June LimbPower is bursting with excitement to announce the incredible news that we have teamed up with five inspirational Paralympians, Richard Whitehead (Athletics), Rachel Morris, (Cycling/Rowing) Andrew Lewis (Triathlon), Corie Mapp (Bob-Sleigh) and Suzanne Rodgers (Swimming). We are all joining forces to offer a once in a lifetime fun event where you compete with our Paralympian team leaders during an engaging virtual alternative to the Family Fun Day.

Barry Yudolph, 82 and SAY’s credit controller sadly passed away from COVID on the 1st May 2020. He disliked ‘boring’ retirement and thrived on having a purpose. When chasing payments, he charmed our clients, always interested in their businesses and the latest happenings. Barry showed the importance of embracing life. He will be missed by all at SAY and our clients. In Barry’s honour, SAY set up the “Spirit of Barry” Award to recognise Barry’s legacy. On a quarterly basis, SAY will donate £1000 to a charity selected by a SAY team member, who has demonstrated the spirit of Barry.“

Jointhe loss loss and limb difference charities this April to celebrate Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month. We will be focussing on seeing the ability and not the disability of our community members. We will be sharing the real-life stories of individuals living with limb loss and limb difference, from all walks of life, in our mission to highlight ‘real life’ as a person with a limb impairment.

Together We Can Do More A consortium of UK charities working to support children, young people and adults with limb loss or difference have joined forces to celebrate and promote Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month this April. #LLLDAM

March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness month, which is dedicated to the 17 million people diagnosed with cerebral palsy around the world. Cerebral palsy affects many people in the UK and is more common than some people realise. Around 2-2.5 in every 1000 children in the UK are born with cerebral palsy and there are an estimated 30,000 children with cerebral palsy in the UK. For Cerebral Palsy Sport, CP Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about cerebral palsy and the work carried out by the charity. CP Sport is the country’s leading national disability sports organisation improving the health and emotional wellbeing of children and adults with cerebral palsy through physical activity, and engaging the community in a number of programmes and interventions.

LimbPower is excited to announce a programme of 10 Pre-recorded dance videos produced for the charity by Para Dance UK and funded by the Irving Memorial Trust. These ten ‘inclusive’ dance videos have been divided into three categories, children and young people, families and older people to reflect the demographics of the limb loss and limb different community. We have also developed seated and standing versions to further meet the mobility needs of the community we serve.

Research reveals pandemic's true impact on disabled people's activity

​WheelPower release 10 NEW Inclusive Workouts for Young Disabled People during Lockdown WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport, is delighted to announce the forthcoming release of 10 new online workouts, aimed specifically at primary and secondary aged disabled children. We hope that these videos will assist parents and teachers with the provision of PE during Lockdown 3.0, and provide new and exciting opportunities for disabled children to stay fit and healthy during this challenging period.

​The British Limb Loss charities have been meeting regularly during the COVID-19 pandemic to support each other and provide a united front and network of support for individuals with limb differences and their families. Thursday 3rd of December is European Limb Loss Day and the International Day for Persons with a Disability. These days were created to raise awareness of the barriers and facilitators to inclusion for people with disabilities more specifically people with limb loss or limb difference.

Today, on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, CP Sport and LimbPower are launching part three of the Virtual Challenge Series. An opportunity for disabledchildren, young people and adultsto take part with their families to start or maintain their active levels. This event even offers support and encouragement, as well as goals and rewards.

Physical Impairment National Disability Sports Organisations release resource to support community members. The four physical impairment National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSOs), have today released a dedicated resource to inform community members about the impairment specific traditional, online and video resources created to support them in engaging in physical activity during the Covid-19 pandemic and beyond. These resources support our efforts to reach out to inactive disabled people offering engagement, advice and guidance tailored to their needs as a physically impaired disabled person.

NDSO Collective Response to COVID-19 The seven National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSOs), have released a useful resource to inform sports providers about the collective response taken to keeping our communities active and reaching out to inactive disabled people through online and virtual opportunities. Read through the exciting ways we are together reaching more deaf and disabled people during the Covid-19 crisis and beyond.

ukactive is delighted to announce the first edition of the Great British Week of Sport, celebrating the power that sport and activity has on our physical, mental and social wellbeing. The celebration will take place from Saturday 19 September to Sunday 27 September, forming the bedrock of the UK’s delivery of the European Week of Sport

Physical impairment NDSOs launch the Virtual Challenge Series to encourage community members to keep moving The COVID-19 pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on persons with a physical disability, with 22% shielding and 18% self-isolating. Our community are worried about the impact of social easing with many choosing to continue to shield and self-isolate. We plan to support these community members to stay active at home.

The charity LimbPower are working throughout the month of August to encourage and engage with people with a limb difference, to help them kick start healthy and active lifestyle. Being active has so many health benefits, including aiding mobility, rehabilitation and improving quality of life. Through sharing and promoting the Ottobock Fitness App (available through the apple store and on android mobile phones) and LimbPower’s exercise videos (available on YouTube and the LimbPower website www.limbpower.com) We aim to support and encourage more members of our community, as they build their independence through increased mobility. Join our social media campaign called #ActiveAugust to raise awareness of the physical and mental health benefits of engaging in physical activity with a focus on moving more.

CP Sport approached LimbPower about developing a series of challenges to support the community to keep engaging in activity at home over the coming months and the Virtual Challenge Series was born. According to research conducted by LimbPower the second most important activity the charity did to keep community members engaged in activity during Lockdown was the 2.6 challenge back in April, followed by a successful At Home Superhero event from June to July.

An open letter urging sport and leisure decision makers to put disabled people’s inclusion at the heart of plans and preparations as restrictions are lifted further. This weekend we will see restrictions lifted further across the nation in sport and leisure. We want to work together to address the growing concern that disabled people may become the forgotten audience as activity increases. We cannot let this happen. If we do not act quickly, we risk failing in our collective obligation to achieve fairness for all.

Home workout for children with limb difference every Tuesday and Thursday mornings on LimbPower’s YouTube channel. LimbPower is proud to announce that it is running online ‘Adaptive Fitness Fun’ sessions twice a week for young people with limb difference. These workout sessions are being run by LimbPower Ambassador Jack Eyers, not only an elite athlete and personal trainer, but also the first amputee to win Mr England.

National Disability Sport Organisation LimbPower has launched a number of new resources, to enhance its exisiting online library, designed to support amputees and people with limb difference to stay fit and healthy, both at home and during their one daily exercise. All of LimbPower’s resources have been developed with coaches and healthcare professionals with a special interest in working with amputees and indviduals with limb difference and have been designed specifically with our community participants in mind.

Due to the ongoing public health issue caused by the Corona Virus (COVID-19) LimbPower have been required to make some incredibly difficult decisions including postponing all of our participation programmes and fundraising events as of March 2020 for the foreseeable future. “Our priority at this time is the health and wellbeing of our staff, volunteers and community members. It is heart breaking that we have postponed these vital services which support the physical, mental and social health of our community members. As a small organisation with passionate and dedicated staff we have been able to mobilise quickly and move some of our vital services online to enable us to continue to support the community we serve. We just need everyone to pull together and inform their patients, members, friends and family about the new services we are offering and where to find them.”

More and more of us are spending time at home and thinking about other ways of being active. Official advice recommends against non-essential contact and all unnecessary travel – including working from home if you can – which means our routines are going to be changing. But staying active is more important than ever right now, and even if you’re mostly in your house at the moment, there are plenty of ways you can still do so.

Kiera Roche, from LimbPower, known for her work of improving the lives of individuals with an amputation or limb difference was announced as one of the most influential people with a disability in the UK at a reception at the House of Lords on Tuesday 8 October. Kiera couldn’t attend the reception as she was leading a group of amputees to the summit of Kilimanjaro.

The new Player Pathway resource for athletes and non-athletes with a limb Impairment produced by LimbPower (with support from Sport England’s Inclusive Sport Fund and the Activity Alliance), answers some of these questions and will support you in knowing where and how you can access physical activity and sport.

On Wednesday 2nd October a team of 21 people set off on the challenge of a lifetime to climb Kilimanjaro the World’s largest free-standing Mountain. This inspiring team included eight amputees (four men and four women), all with varied limb differences of different levels ranging from below the knee - Tracy Kitto, to full a full hip disarticulation - Damian Harper and Simon Grater, who is an amputee and Type 1 Diabetic and Mick Kirby, an upper limb stroke survivor.

LimbPower Autumn Newsletter

This Saturday three times HBSA Disabled Sportsperson of the Year David Williamson will complete his most ambitious challenge yet - an incredible 30 marathons in 30 days! Portsmouth-based David (40) who works for car finance company Moneybarn, had both legs amputated through the knee when he was a few months old, having been born without tibia bones. As well as pushing marathons and being a five-time participant in the Great South Run David has completed a 24-hour wheelchair push and played over 300 games for South Hants Sitting Volleyball.

Published: Monday, June 10, 2019 Two charities have responded to a high number of schools asking for more support to make their PE lessons and activities inclusive for children using sports prostheses

This month three times HBSA Disabled Sportsperson of the Year David Williamson will be attempting his most ambitious challenge yet - an incredible 30 marathons in 30 days! Portsmouth-based David (40) who works for car finance company Moneybarn, had both legs amputated through the knee when he was a few months old, having been born without tibia bones. As well as pushing marathons and being a five-time participant in the Great South Run David has completed a 24-hour wheelchair push and played over 300 games for South Hants Sitting Volleyball.

On 6-7 April, Stoke Mandeville Stadium will host the 2019 LimbPower Games. This event is the highlight of the year for many amputees and individuals with limb difference, who are looking to discover and progress in physical activity and sport.

LimbPower's Equality and Diversity Statement. LimbPower will continue to promote diversity and social inclusion as part of our governance strategy. We will continue to build a culture of diversity and inclusion across all areas of the organisation, including appointments of board members, staff, volunteers, membership and participants.

Kiera Roche, CEO of LimbPower was announced as one of the most influential people with a disability in the UK, in the area of Education, Public and Third Sector at a reception at the South Bank Centre last night.

New research shows almost half of disabled people fear losing benefits if they take part in exercise Almost half of disabled people (47%) fear losing their benefits if they are seen to be physically active, according to new research commission by the Dwarf Sport Association.

The Multisport event is open to children and young people aged five to eighteen with a physical impairment in the morning and in the afternoon the event is open to adults. Sports and activities on offer this year will include climbing, wheelchair basketball, track athletics, cycling, sitting volleyball, tennis, cricket and football (this programme is subject to change). For many participants, this event is one of the first opportunities they have to try out lots of different activities as an amputee.

Hundreds of children with limb loss are set to benefit from a further £1.5 million investment into sports and activity prosthetics under plans announced by Care Minister Caroline Dinenage today. The next stage of a Government fund for sports prosthetics – launched in March 2016 – will mean children who have suffered limb loss or who were born with a limb deficiency will benefit from the latest prosthetics. The fund – which has already supported 220 disabled children – will mean more children will be able to use sporting prosthetics, including running blades, as well as supporting research and innovation to improve prosthetic technology for the future.

Funded by Starworks, Limbformation will be a website, providing support to children and families living with limb difference. Limbformation will be designed as an easy to use one-stop shop, offering information, resources, links and advice. In addition to children and families, the website will also offer guidance and resources to professionals working with these children, including both those who are born with a congenital limb disorder and those who have experienced an amputation.

#EveryoneCanDance New event for amputees and individuals with a limb impairment LimbPower are bringing you a brand-new event for amputees and individuals with a limb impairment who want to dance. Whether you wear a prosthesis, orthosis or use a wheelchair this event is for you. LimbPower and Para Dance UK have teamed up to bring you a programme of dance events, resources and opportunities to increase participation in dance.

This is a workshop for limb impaired children and amputees aged 5-18 who have an activity limb or would like to be more active. The aim is to teaching children how to make the most of their prosthetic limbs to aid their participation in physical activity and sport, both in school and in the community.

Paralympian in track and field, Scott Moorhouse who represented Great Britain at the2012 Paralympic Games in London is embarking on a new challenge; In July 2018 he will embark on a week long journey to cycle from Lands End to John O'Groats.

​Make volunteering in sport more appealing for disabled people, new research finds New research released on International Volunteer Day (5 December) will enable providers to improve their volunteering opportunities, especially for disabled people. The report, ‘Encouraging disabled people to volunteer in sport’, explores the barriers to volunteering and the drivers that could improve its appeal. The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) alongside the eight National Disability Sports Organisations, including LimbPower and Sport England commissioned the project. It aims to understand more on volunteering in sport, as well as to improve the quality and number of opportunities for disabled people. The researchers involved almost 1,500 disabled and non-disabled people in the report and compared the differences in perception and experience of volunteering between the two audiences.

Sunday the 3rd of December is European Limb Loss Day and the International Day for Persons with a Disability. These days were created to raise awareness of the barriers and facilitators to inclusion for people with disabilities and specifically people with limb Loss or limb difference.

​New video educates schools on delivering inclusive opportunities for disabled children To Mark World Children’s Day, National Disability Sports Organisations and Youth Sport Trust have released a new video to improve the delivery of inclusive sports opportunities through the School Games. The new video highlights how schools can work together with expert partners to ensure their School Games offer is inclusive for all pupils.

LimbPower is delighted to announce Richard Whitehead, four-time World Champion and two-time Paralympic gold medallist, as the charity’s new patron. A dedicated sportsman, Richard is looking forward to supporting LimbPower’s ongoing work to improve sport and physical activity opportunities for people with limb impairments.

Advisor –South West Area. The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) is dedicated to getting more disabled people more active for life. We work with a number of key partners looking at innovative ways to improve and increase the opportunities available to disabled people to enjoy sport and active recreation. Engagement Advisors support key strategic partners, including County Sports Partnerships (CSPs), National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs) and leisure providers to become more effective in their role of enabling more disabled people to be active in sport and active recreation. You will have good knowledge of the sport and active recreation sector and how it operates and be able to advocate improvements which enable more disabled people to get active. You will also have a knowledge of the non-sport sectors including disabled peoples organisations and how to establish effective relationships to build partnerships in connecting these sectors together. Salary £28,379-£34,686 The successful candidate will be based in the South West Region and will have the option for remote/home working. This post is open to those considering either a secondment or permanent position within EFDS. IF APPLICABLE THIS POSITION IS SUBJECT TO DISCLOSURE BARRING SERVICE (DBS). We offer 25 days holiday plus bank holiday, pension contribution, childcare vouchers and cycle to work scheme. For further details and an application pack, please call 01509 227750, email jobs@efds.co.uk or visit www.efds.co.uk to download an application pack. Closing date for applications: Wednesday 27 September 2017 at 5pm Completed applications and equal opportunity forms should be received by email (jobs@efds.co.uk) or by post (English Federation of Disability Sport, SportPark, Loughborough University, 3 Oakwood Drive, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 3QF). Interviews to be held on Thursday 5 October 2017 in the South West region TBC

British Blind Sport are delighted to announce the launch of our Newcastle Have a Go Day. Working in partnership with Henshaw’s Newcastle, this event will take place at The Walker Activity Dome, Wharrier Street, Walker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 3BR on Friday 27th October from 10.30am until 3pm.

National charity, LimbPower is pleased to announce they will host two events for young amputees and children with physical impairments in 2017. On Saturday 24 June, LimbPower will bring the Junior Games to Birmingham - a new date on their sporting calendar. Then on Saturday 30 September the Games return to Stoke Mandeville Stadium in Buckinghamshire. For many years, the LimbPower Junior Games has provided children and young people with a great opportunity try out new sports and activities in a fun, friendly and supportive environment. LimbPower is delighted to expand their events programme this year and take the Junior Games to Birmingham for the first time.

Join us throughout the month of April to raise awareness of limb loss and limb difference, to support and encourage members of our community as they build their independence through increased mobility. Join our social media campaign called #GetMoving to raise awareness of the physical health benefits and mental health benefits of engaging in physical activity with a focus on moving more at home, in the office and at school. LimbPower, Limbless Association, Douglas Bader Foundation, BLESMA, Steps and Reach have joined together in making April 2017 the first UK Limb Loss Awareness Month, following on from the great work of the Amputee Coalition of America.

Last year the government announced that £1,500,000 would be released for Children’s Activity Prosthetic Limbs, a major step forward for all of the individuals and organisations who campaigned to secure this fund. £750,000 of this fund has been allocated to providing children up to the age of 18 with prosthetic limbs and components and £750,000 has been allocated to a research collaboration into identifying what children and their families want from their prosthetic service and how this can be delivered. NHS Limb Centres across the country have been prescribing activity limbs for children since October 2016, with over 50 children already in receipt of activity limbs. It is anticipated that 70 children will have been issued with activity limbs by the end of this month.

National charity, LimbPower is pleased to announce they will host two events for young amputees and children with physical impairments in 2017. On Saturday 24 June, LimbPower will bring the Junior Games to Birmingham - a new date on their sporting calendar. Then on Saturday 30 September the Games return to Stoke Mandeville Stadium in Buckinghamshire

LimbPower announces a new series of have-a-go sport events for people with limb impairments in 2017. Three new multi-sport events will take place in Twickenham, Birmingham and Sheffield - offering amputees an opportunity to try out new sports and activities.

New research released today, 8 February reveals clear demand for more physical activities that are accessible for amputees and people with limb impairments. The findings published in a new report from LimbPower aim to give providers more information and support on this specific target audience. LimbPower hopes it will help others and ourselves to plan and deliver more appealing and suitable activities for people with limb impairments. The national charity, LimbPower, conducted a survey into amputees and people with limb impairments participation in sport and physical activity. The report highlights some key findings about current trends and latent demand.

Children across England have begun to receive new running blades and swimming legs from the NHS, in a move by the government to help a future generation of young people get active and even become the next Paralympians.

​I CAN... Celebrating International Day of Persons with Disabilities Celebrating Inclusivity and limb difference Join us on 28th of November and across the week in celebrating 3rd December in our social media campaign I CAN... to help promote positive experiences of individuals with limb loss and limb difference.

Josh was injured while carrying out his job at a climbing centre. He had always been passionate about climbing but following his accident, in which he sustained a spinal cord injury and subsequent right leg amputation, he wondered if he would climb again or even be able to lead a normal family life.

Funding Announcement Limb centres around the UK are now able to apply for funding of paediatric sports and activity limbs. Up until now there has been no dedicated funding for children’s sports and activity feet, meaning that young people with amputations or congenital limb loss may have been limited to a standard prosthetic foot which are not always suitable for multi-terrain use or sports like running, football and cycling. The funding, which forms a part of a larger budget allocation of £1.75m for prosthetics research, was announced in March this year and includes a £750k provision for new sports prosthetics for child amputees on the NHS. The Department of Health has now informed limb centres that funding can now applied for, meaning that clinicians will be able to identify and work with patients who are eligible to receive the limbs. Whether it is being able to play outdoors all day, take part in competitive sport or just to blend in with their friends at school, having the option to have a dynamic, multi-use foot will for many children, open up a lot of new and exciting opportunities.

Carly Bauert has joined LimbPower as our part-time children's prosthetic coordinator. Carly will be working with Limb Centres and the Department of Health to support parents and healthcare professionals through the process of applying for a sports limb over the next 12 months. It was recently announced that £750,000 has been made available by the Department of Health for children’s activity limbs for both upper and lower limb amputees and children with limb difference who wear a prosthesis.

Danny’s Story Danny Green, from Grays, Essex, has been selected as an ambassador for nationwide campaign, Together We Will. The campaign aims to motivate disabled people, along with their friends and family to become more active and promote positive physical and mental well-being.

Andy’s current focus is on the on the 2016 Paralympics in Rio.

Anoushé Husain has hypermobility syndrome. Here, she discusses how her diagnosis motivated her to try something new and she fell in love with climbing.

Julie Rogers, a teenager from Bedford who took part in the 2012 Paralympics as the youngest member on the Team GB Sitting Volleyball squad switched to athletics after attending a LimbPower and British Athletics Running Clinic and following the successful trial of an Ottobock prosthetic running system. You can see Julie perform in Rio this week.

Ottobock joins LimbPower for the Junior Games Ottobock, the Official Prosthetic, Orthotic and Wheelchair Technical Service Provider to the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games also support grass roots physical activity and sports participation through their work with LimbPower and Artic One. Supporting current Paralympians, future Paralympians and every day children and adults engaging in physical activity and sport. Ottobock will be supporting the Junior Games on Saturday 1st October, offering information and advice and supporting children and their families.

Sailability are looking for people who currently take part in sailing activity (by using the term sailing we mean any kind of boating sail or power, small or big boat or Inland Waterways) either as a sailor or volunteer with a disability to take part in a survey to help them understand more about people's experiences and perceptions about sailing as an activity for people with a disability. Sailability will use the responses to help shape their strategy and provisions for the future Here is the link; http://surveys.spikeinsight.co.uk/s3/sailability-grps

The Manic MaraFun – is a 26.2-mile challenge with a difference. Each participant has to complete a minimum of one mile, or four laps of the track at the iconic Stoke Mandeville Stadium. The 26.2 miles are divided into 27 legs. Each leg is completed in a unique style, such as Nordic walking, running, pushing or hula hooping by an individual, a family or a group.

We all know that being active and taking regular exercise is good for our health, both physically and mentally. While many of us want to be more active, sometimes we don't know where to start or who to speak to. Together We Will has released five top tips to support and empower disabled people to be more active and get healthier.

David has completed three Great South Runs, raising funds for a National cancer charity as well as Willow. Today he agreed to join the LimbPower Manic MaraFun to help raise invaluable funds for a charity which helped him engage with sport. David said “The whole point is to push myself to the limit as much as I can to inspire other people, both able-bodied and with a disability to do the same."

It's the last day of the Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge and our team have set off for the final time. There have been hills, lots of hills, descents, rain, wind and sunshine, but mostly there has been laughter, grit and determination. No one has given up even though they are sore and tired. So for the last time, if you have a few spare pennies or pounds please donate to this amazing team. Thank you for your support and encouragement it means a lot. See you on the other side. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/limbpower170milecycle

Windsurfing is an increasingly popular pastime for many people with disabilities. With no need for special adaptations or costly equipment, it’s easier than you think to get out on the water. Just as many windsurfers have learned to adapt to their disabilities, many windsurfing instructors and clubs throughout Britain have found innovative ways to accommodate everyone into their sessions. This ensures that if someone with a disability wants to windsurf, they will find a way to make it happen.

​Disability sport can play a key role in rehabilitation and recovery for someone who has suffered life-changing injuries. With our campaign "Don't Quit, Do It", we want to highlight the ways people can get involved and some of the inspiring journeys our clients have made. We're also encouraging people to share their stories with us via #DontQuitDoIt.

EFDS website features a blog post every Friday through the year.

LimbPower. welcome the news that the Chancellor has found £500,000 to be spent on new “child sports prosthetics” to allow 500 amputee children to run or swim. Another £1million will fund development of new forms of prosthetics with the industry, such as 3D printed limbs. Even more exciting is the news that Mr Osborne will also unveil a review of the provision of prosthetics services by the NHS in the summer, something that is long overdue. Pollyanna,Sarah’s daughter has attended the LimbPower Primary and Junior Games.

New report from the Sport and Recreation Alliance Uncovering the Social Value of Sport.

Swim Wales are launching a recruitment campaign to identify swimmers for Para-Swimming. Para-Swimming is the competitive pathway for swimmers classified with a physical, visual or intellectual impairment, with the pinnacle of the pathway being the Paralympic Games.

PREDICTING RESILIENCE AND POST TRAUMATIC GROWTH FOLLOWING EXPERIENCES OF LIFE TRAUMA This is a Research Study, supervised by the Department of Psychology and Counselling, University of Greenwich, and has received full ethical approval from the University. It seeks to investigate the extent to which an individual’s early experiences and personality factors might predict individual levels of resilience and potential for post-traumatic growth. Your participation is completely voluntary and you may withdraw your research responses at any time until the date of processing on the 26th of February 2016. You will find all details regarding ethical guidance for your protection, together with procedures to ensure your complete anonymity and the security of your data. Thank you very much for your interest. Please help contribute to a better understanding of enhancing Resilience and Post Traumatic Growth - Thank You!!   Link to survey:  Predicting Resilience and Post Traumatic Strength 2016

There will be two Para Tris to coincide with the debut of paratriathlon as a Paralympic sport at Rio 2016 – Para Tri South returns to Dorney Lake in Windsor on 7th August, Para Tri  North will be held at Crosby Lakeside in Liverpool on 24 July. There are also two brand new events: a Para Swim and a Para Run/Push, a fun run/wheelchair race, at Dorney Lake on 15 May. The events were chosen to reflect the UK’s three most popular disability sports of swimming, cycling and running. The primary focus of the series is making sport accessible to the UK’s 12 million disabled people. http://www.tribalseries.com

LimbPower along with the other National Disability Sport Organisations commissioned the FEDS to conduct some research called Active Beyond Education? This research explores young disabled people’s experiences of sport and physical activity, during their transition from education to adulthood.

EFDS, 1 February 2016 The CYQ Exercise and Disability qualification was developed as part of the EFDS Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) and provides instructors with the confidence and expertise to address these barriers and deliver safe, effective and fun exercise programmes for a range of disabled people.

The annual LimbPower Games was created for amputees and individuals with limb impairements. If you are a new amputee or if you are ambulant disabled, but new to sport this event is for you. This is a unique opportunity to participate in sport in a controlled, relaxed, friendly and supported environment. This event is open to all individuals with an amputation, congenital limb absence and limb difference.