Charity aims to help Gaza child amputees

Gaza has the largest population of child amputees per capita in the world, according to the UN

A former surgeon is hoping to bring children who have lost their limbs in Gaza to the UK to fit them with prosthetics.

Mark Couchman, from Plymouth charity Limbs for Life, produces 3D-printed limbs which he said were much cheaper than other artificial limbs.

He said he was in talks with aid agencies to try to bring six amputees to Devon to take part in a trial as soon as possible.

Design students from Arts University in Plymouth are working with the charity on the project, which Mr Couchman said he hoped would eventually lead to the mass-production of prosthetics in Gaza.

Mark Couchman, from Limbs For Life, produces 3D printed limbs

Israel launched its war in Gaza in response to the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023.

Gaza has the largest population of child amputees per capita in the world, according to the UN.

Earlier this year, it estimated 4,500 needed prosthetics.

Mr Couchman said: "I get very angry and emotional about what I see in the television in respect of Gaza - that anger I am turning into something positive.

"It used to cost about £15,000 but now we can make a prosthetic limb for a child for around £60.

"This enables us to mass produce thousands of prosthetic limbs for children in areas of conflict."

Professor Stephen Felmingham said it will give students a sense of working with a real agency

Professor Stephen Felmingham, from Arts University, said: "There will be game and fashion designers, photographers and artists helping.

"We are interested in how we can make a difference, to start thinking through the design.

"It'll give the students a sense of working with a real agency in the world."

Steve Bunt, who lost his leg about 15 years ago, is also helping Mr Couchman trial his new artificial limbs.

He said: "These kids have got nothing.

"To help them try to have a normal life - it's a great thing."