“I have been involved with Steel Bones for a number of years, firstly as a volunteer and then as a Trustee for 3 years. A role which I have stepped down from due to work commitments.”
Read More of Caroline's Testimonial
Steel Bones have made a significant difference to many lives, and to those families who are members dealing with limb loss. As a Trustee I saw first hand and heard from members at events and at the Celebration days of how much the charity has helped them to connect with others within the amputee community, the connections helped them to have Hope for the future, and to share experiences and receive peer support. Reading testimonials from amputees who had attended Celebration days was overwhelming positive due to the power of the connections members had received and appreciated meeting other families. This support is provided to adults and children, and Steel Bones pride themselves in the support which they offer to the whole family unit recognising that limb loss can affect all members of the family.
Steel Bones have set up community peer support groups and regular on-line support, and I have attended some of these groups. I have heard from amputees and seen first hand the impact of being able to connect with others in the amputee community has so that amputees do not feel quite so alone. Sharing experiences and gaining motivation and making friends with others has played a big impact on many of the amputees and made a real difference. Steel Bones connections has helped to show those living with limb loss that everyone is different, each amputee will have their own goals, and they can see that what they thought impossible may be achieved by meeting others. Celebration days are an inspiration to many members as they have a panel of amputees who present themselves to the members and talk about their difficulties and their achievements.
Steel Bones helps to bring people together and has helped to build stronger amputee communities throughout the UK, with over 1,000 members now.
Steel Bones have provided workshops at schools which has helped children to have a greater understanding of disabilities, and raise awareness of what life is like living as an amputee. I attended one of the school workshops and was so impressed at the education being provided to children in a safe environment allowing them to ask questions and interact with amputees. These projects make a difference whilst educating children/teachers and communities.
Steel Bones are now partnering with NHS Trusts, providing more support groups to connect those dealing with limb loss, providing education, support, welfare benefits advice and a listening ear when needed. Steel Bones have provided additional support with housing issues/supported members when they are having difficulties accessing prosthetic reviews and support etc.
“The team thought the session was phenomenal. The feedback has been incredible, saying it is really fun, informative, interactive and raises awareness in a wonderful way. I can’t thank you enough for giving our young people these sessions.”
“In my role as a senior physiotherapist at the Lister working with inpatient and outpatient amputees for 4 years I often found there was a real lack of support for patients after surgery until I came across Steel Bones. They have provided invaluable support to numerous patients in that time and are the first service that we signpost any amputee and their family too. As my role as a case manager now for the last 18 months, again any amputee or potential new amputee I have always referred to Steel Bones and been really impressed by what they offer. All concerned with Steel Bones are a delight to work with and are so passionate, friendly and helpful. And their services are free and for everyone and they do the little things that make the most difference. They are an amazing service and I would encourage any case manager, any amputee or professional working with amputees and their families to make contact.”
“I was introduced to Steel Bones via a mutual friend and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Both Leigh and Emma messaged me in the early days to offer help and support. Through them I was able to travel and meet other people and families in the same position as me. Through this I have found I can do more than I realise. They gave me the opportunity to play wheelchair tennis and have helped to find contacts north of the country where I live to help me do more tennis. It’s also helped my son to realise that amputation doesn’t mean life is over – it’s just done differently and just as fun as before.”