Well I have been having the same thoughts.
Without I must say any real attempt to locate parts sources as yet
My 'thinks go like this' tell me if you agree/disagree
1. All small electrical/electronics from kettles and toasters up - mare made in such volume with so many parts/style changes that there is no meaningful infrastructure for parts - think about it, there simply would be warehouses full of redundant parts all over if there were..
So these item are made like a Timex watch- totally integrated- when broke - bin it.
And I guess this is true too to digicams - I like you have taken a few duds apart, and there is not much to 'mend'- So you get full time repair shops turning stuff down or giving silly prices simply because the hour rate to dismantle an item only to find no parts replace is a no-no.
Now it occurred to me to advertise for busted cameras on the lines of 'Don't trash it - post it to me.
Just the price of a stamp whatever, and if it be fixed- contact the sender and say its fixed- how much will you pay me to
If they are interested they will send you a fair prince plus shipping.
Those you cant fix -well now know have an ever growing box of those hard to come by parts
many of which will be I am sure, if not 'common' are near enough to do a job.
Also the fixed ones that are not going back--- a nice little side line.
Good for you and me we are the opposite sides of the pond Huh!