Leicester, UK Accommodations Support NewLife Foundation for Disabled Children

LEICESTER, ENGLAND--(Marketwired - Jul 8, 2013) - While many children have too many toys, there are others who are in dire need -- and not for just for play. Newlife Foundation, the UK's leading children's disability charity, puts specialist and educational toys in the hands and homes of children in need, and the Leicester Marriott Hotel is honored to have helped with this mission by hosting fundraising events in Leicester.

Thus far £1,800 has been raised at this hotel in Leicester, UK, all of which will be used to fund Kit Boxes full of specialist equipment, which will be loaned out to families for up to 3 months at a time. Kit Boxes are one of a range of practical support services offered, completely free of charge, by the Newlife Foundation, which works with thousands of UK families of disabled and terminally ill children each year. The age and condition-appropriate boxes are in such high demand that the charity currently has a waiting list of more than 120 children. Boxes include sensory and developmental equipment including gel pads, shapes, vibrating and textured toys and memory and maze games.

"Play is important to all children, but for those with a disability, the opportunity to access a variety of interesting and varied aids may not be a reality," Karen Dobson, Newlife's lead nurse, says. "Some of the equipment included in our Kit Boxes is around £200 for a single item, which puts it beyond the financial reach of many of the families we support."

Seven-year-old Lewis Larvin from Braunstone is the first area child to benefit from the funds raised at this hotel and restaurant in Leicester. "Finding appropriate toys and aids to help with Lewis's development is not easy for us as parents," Shadna Kanabar, his mother, says. "It's so exciting getting the Newlife Kit Box, which has been put together by nursing professionals with experience of the developmental needs of children like Lewis."

Newlife's work inspired the Leicester Marriott Hotel to get involved. "I am absolutely delighted to be able to support Newlife in the valuable work they do," Sheena Williams, general manager, says. "Being involved with fundraising for the Kit Box scheme has provided both myself and my team with a great sense of fulfilment."

To get involved, contact the Newlife Community Fundraising Team at 0800 988 4640; those interested in borrowing a Kit Box can contact the Newlife Nurse Helpline on 0800 902 0095 or by emailing nurses@newlifecharity.co.uk.

About the Leicester Marriott Hotel
At the Leicester Marriott Hotel, minutes from the M1, guests will find a luxurious four-star hotel with service that's as thoughtful as its amenities. Whether in town for business or to see the sights, every visitor will feel at home at these accommodations in Leicester. A UK visit isn't complete without cricket or football, and guests can catch the Leicester Tigers, Leicester City FC and Leicestershire County Cricket nearby. Other popular area attractions include The National Space Centre, Conkers, Twycross Zoo, Snibston Discovery Park and Twinlakes. After a day of exploration or business, return to a spacious guest room, outfitted with an ergonomic work space, high-speed Internet access, air-conditioning, luxury bedding and a 32-inch flat-screen TV. Or, let go of the day's stress in the fully equipped gym, heated swimming pool, steam room or sauna. When it's time to indulge, sample Mediterranean and Asian cuisines at Mixx Restaurant, or enjoy light snacks, specialty teas and wireless Internet access at the Atrium Lounge. Leicester Marriott Hotel is an expert at hosting events and offers nearly 14,000 square feet of event space, a wedding terrace, impeccable catering and on-site event coordination; the largest venue can host up to 500 guests.