MoD announces UK heroes to get ‘bionic’ legs

Tuesday, Feb 19, 2013

War heroes who have lost their legs will now have access to the most technologically advanced prosthetics currently available, including the Genium ‘bionic’ leg made famous by Derek Derenalagi in the London Paralympic Games, thanks to new funding announced today by the Defence Secretary Philip Hammond and Chancellor George Osborne.

The Government has made £6.5 million available to guarantee that all Serving and former members of our Armed Forces who have been injured while serving their country in Iraq or Afghanistan will be able to have the latest technology prosthetics, where clinical conditions indicate that this is appropriate.

The next generation of micro processor knee, often described as a ‘bionic leg’, will dramatically improve the quality of life and rehabilitation for our troops and veterans. It provides better stability, greater mobility and exciting new movement possibilities including the ability to step over obstacles, negotiate stairs and walk backwards safely.

This additional funding represents the Government’s commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, ensuring that anyone injured while serving their country gets special consideration and the best possible medical treatment. It builds on the new £17 million Rehabilitation Complex at Headley Court and £5 million announced last year to modernise and refurbish accommodation – ensuring our injured Service personnel get the very best.

Source: MoD