The Portsmouth Enablement Centre, which is run by Steeper Group in partnership with Portsmouth Hospitals University (PHU) NHS Trust, is helping people with limb loss gain independence and confidence by creating bespoke prosthetic limbs.

A specialist team at the centre works with patients to personalise the design and finish of patients’ prosthetic devices.

Patients can choose from NHS-provided designs or choose their own design to be laminated onto their new socket, such as a superhero, football team, or family pet. This personalised element helps people feel more confident and empowered.

Eight-year-old Tobi, who was born with a limb difference, is one patient who has received a bespoke prosthetic arm from the Portsmouth Enablement Centre.

Tobi has been a regular visitor to the centre since he was six months old. He recently got a new prosthetic arm, custom-designed with his favourite theme: LEGO®.

Tobi has never let his limb difference hold him back. He has always been involved in shaping his own prosthetics, and this time his love of LEGO® inspired the design. The team at the centre embedded two real LEGO® pieces into the arm, allowing Tobi to build with LEGO® directly on his new limb.

Tobi’s mum, Debra, said: “The care Tobi receives from the team is phenomenal. Wayne, Jo and Dan go above and beyond. They really listen to what Tobi wants and do everything they can to make it happen.

“His new Lego-themed arm has been amazing—not only is it helping with everyday tasks, but he loves showing it off. Most importantly, the team always makes sure Tobi feels included every step of the way. We couldn’t ask for better care, and we’re so thankful for everything they do.”

The Portsmouth Enablement Centre assesses both adults and children with upper or lower limb loss and deficiencies. Once assessed and deemed suitable for a prosthesis, patients receive a bespoke limb crafted in the centre’s in-house workshop, from casting to final build.

Some prosthetics are carefully designed to replicate skin tone and appearance, while others are built using lightweight carbon fibre and high-performance materials for enhanced mobility and durability.

Lucy Riddle, Prosthetics Clinical Manager at PEC, commented: “Every device we make is bespoke. We work closely with each individual to ensure not only a comfortable fit, but also a design that reflects their personality. Both are equally important to a person’s confidence and wellbeing.

“Our technicians enjoy being creative, whether it’s crafting limbs with superhero designs or incorporating family photos, and the biggest reward is seeing the difference it makes to someone’s life.”

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