Record numbers step into Rainbows

[[{“type”:”media”,”view_mode”:”media_large”,”fid”:”451″,”attributes”:{“class”:”media-image aligncenter size-large wp-image-40477″,”typeof”:”foaf:Image”,”style”:””,”width”:”690″,”height”:”460″,”alt”:”IMG_2997″}}]]

Record numbers of people from across the East Midlands took up the invitation to experience the beauty of Rainbows. The Loughborough-based hospice for children and young people with life-limiting conditions opened its doors to the public for a day of celebration, attracting over 1,000 visitors, more than ever before.

The sun shone kindly on the charity’s Community Open Day on Saturday, (16 September) boosting the numbers of those who came to view the facilities, enjoy the gardens – and obtain a sense of how the hospice is able to provide vital support to youngsters and their families when they need it most.

And there was plenty to celebrate, thanks to donors and supporters. There’s the beautiful new sensory garden for visitors to enjoy. The hospice has also added a vibrant and colourful new reception area. Rainbows also extended an invitation for all to come inside and view just what makes the hospice so special. Guided tours of the hospice facilities took place at regular intervals throughout the day.

Andrew Ball, Director of Supporter Relations, said: “Rainbows is an inspirational place where we extend the best possible care in a loving, joyous environment – and the focus is on making every day special for those who come to us.”

But, he said, it is only made possible through the dedication of donors and volunteers who support the charity.

Mr Ball added: “Our Open Day is about celebrating those who help us maintain the highest level of care – our supporters, old and new. And today we were bowled over by the record number of people who turned out to support us. It has been a wonderful day!”

There was live music and dance, arts and crafts stalls, tea and cakes for all – and a chance to meet the Rainbows therapy team to try out some activities. Many tried out messy play, hand-printing, or sampled the gym facilities. And children (of all ages!) enjoyed the soft play area, experienced the sensory room, or had fun in the outside play area.