STAND's "Legs on Tour" Aims to Restore Mobility and Hope Across Africa

Prosthetists in Ghana working on STAND limbs

A remarkable UK charity is preparing to embark on an ambitious nationwide mission that could transform the lives of thousands of amputees across sub-Saharan Africa.

STAND has announced its "Legs on Tour 2026" appeal, which will see its team travel across the UK from 3-6 August collecting unwanted prosthetic leg components from prosthetic centres. 

Rather than allowing these high-quality components to be discarded, they will be refurbished and shipped to clinics across sub-Saharan Africa, where they will be fitted to people who would otherwise have little or no chance of receiving a prosthetic limb.

The charity highlights a stark global imbalance. While many prosthetic legs in countries such as the UK are retired after use despite remaining in excellent condition, millions of amputees in low-income African nations have no access to prosthetic care at all. 

It's estimated up to 95% of amputees in these countries are unable to obtain a prosthetic limb, leaving many unable to work, attend school or fully participate in everyday life.

For those affected, the consequences extend far beyond mobility. The inability to walk often limits education, employment and independence, trapping individuals and families in a cycle of poverty. By giving someone the opportunity to walk again, organisations like STAND can also help restore confidence, dignity and economic opportunity.

RTA survivor Catherine from Ghana

To ensure the tour reaches as many collection points as possible, STAND is aiming to raise £20,000. The first £2,000 donated will be matched pound for pound by leading prosthetics manufacturer Blatchford, effectively doubling the value of early contributions. The funds will help cover the costs of collecting, refurbishing and transporting prosthetic components, as well as providing rehabilitation support to amputees receiving their new limbs.

Since being founded 12 years ago, STAND has already helped thousands of people regain their mobility across sub-Saharan Africa through the provision of prosthetic legs and rehabilitation services. Earlier this year, the charity strengthened its international impact through a partnership with French NGO Nav'Solidaire to expand the refurbishment and delivery of donated prosthetic legs throughout Africa.

Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead MBE has thrown his support behind the appeal, describing mobility as something that transforms confidence, independence and opportunity. His endorsement underlines the life-changing difference that access to a prosthetic limb can make.

If you, a family member or someone you know has an unused prosthetic leg component, or if you would simply like to support the appeal financially, further information about donating equipment or making a contribution can be found at STAND's Legs on Tour 2026 appeal.

Sometimes, giving someone the chance to stand really does help them take the next step towards a brighter future.

https://www.stand.ngo