The charity’s Box4Kids initiative gives seriously ill and disabled children the chance to watch their favourite events from a private box, in conjunction with Seat Unique.
Since October 2023, Seat Unique has supported the fantastic Barrie Wells Trust, helping to make dreams come true for disabled and seriously ill children through their Box4Kids scheme.
The initiative allows kids to experience their favourite sports, theatre and music events from private boxes, making everlasting memories that their families will hold close to their hearts.
Comfortable and safe, a box is an ideal environment to make seriously ill children and their families feel special for the day, giving them a VIP experience.
The charity launched Box4Kids in 2010, and since then over 20,000 children and their families have enjoyed VIP Box4Kids experiences at 1,953 events. Seat Unique is proud to be involved in this incredible project.
What is the Barrie Wells Trust?
Founded by the entrepreneur and philanthropist Barrie Wells, the Barrie Wells Trust has been making a significant difference for over a decade. Unique in its approach, the Trust operates without traditional fundraising efforts, with Barrie himself as the sole funder.
Barrie's impactful charity work was recognised when he was awarded an MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours List of 2020.
How does Seat Unique support the Barrie Wells Trust?
Throughout the partnership with Barrie Wells Trust, Seat Unique has continued to support the Box4Kids initiative, donating boxes for sporting, music and cultural events.
In the last 11 months, Seat Unique has had the opportunity to donate executive boxes for Bluey’s Big Play and Blippi Live! at the First Direct Arena, Disney on Ice, the Challenge Cup Final, AEW Wrestling, and the NFL at Wembley Stadium.
Bluey’s Big Play
At Bluey’s Big Play in Leeds in June 2024, children and their families were able to watch the theatre adaption of the Emmy-award winning TV show in style and comfort.
Barrie’s said that the children had a “wonderful” time at the event, including two-year-old Isaac O’Brien. Isaac lives with a brain malformation called Dandy Walker, which means he needs a tracheostomy and pacemaker.
Isaac’s mum said, “Isaac had so much fun watching Bluey’s Big Play. He laughed, danced, clapped and signed some of the words used in the show - he was mesmerised! He loved his VIP experience and we loved watching him.
“He’s been so busy back and forth to Great Ormond Street Hospital in recent months, it was lovely to see him enjoy such a special treat. Thank you so much for the experience.”
And six-year-old Aoife, who suffers from Cerebral Palsy “loved” the experience. Aoife’s mum said, “Thank you so much for Aoife’s amazing experience. She absolutely loved her special morning, especially her VIP badge.”
Disney on Ice
In February 2024, Seat Unique donated boxes at Disney on Ice - a dream come true for the little girls who attended.
The children wore princess dresses and tiaras and ate princess cake, in their private box, decorated with balloons to make the day extra special.
Challenge Cup Final
At the Challenge Cup Final, Luke, Alex and their respective families were able to watch the game from their very own private box. The feedback received from both families who attended the event was absolutely wonderful and we’re so happy we have been able to play a part in this fantastic day.
Alex's mother, shared the profound impact of the experience, stating, “Having the box and facilities, and importantly the view, made Alex’s day. He got to see his team winning the Challenge Cup and felt like a VIP. To have this opportunity at Wembley on such a big occasion was like a dream. We want to thank everyone involved.”
Blippi Live!
One of the children that attended Blippi Live! was 8-year-old Jake. Jake’s mum got in touch to say “The Box4Kids initiative is perfect for Jake, who would otherwise get overwhelmed in regular seats. It means he can enjoy live events like this in a more relaxed way. We’d never been able to consider this otherwise!”
Jake is a heart transplant recipient and is non verbal so having a safe environment away from the crowds made the experience so much easier and more enjoyable for Jake and his family.
Another child that attended was 5-year-old Sophie with her family. Sophie’s mum has been in touch to say, “I just wanted to say thank you so much for the tickets to see Blippi on Saturday. Sophie and Louis really enjoyed the show. Sophie has previously been nervous when visiting the theatre so having use of the box was really useful. It meant that we could take her away from the busy environment when needed and then she could go back to enjoy the show when she was ready.”
Why the Barrie Wells Trust
Barrie Wells Trust has a proven track record of making a difference in many of the children’s lives. Their expertise and extensive network enable them to arrange once-in-a-lifetime experiences that go beyond traditional entertainment.
With a passion for making a difference, the Trust arranges unforgettable events tailored to each child's unique interests, allowing them and their families to create precious memories.
Robin Sherry, CEO and Founder at Seat Unique, said: “We are proud to partner with an organisation that is dedicated to creating unforgettable live experiences in a safe and relaxing environment for seriously ill and disabled children. We look forward to contributing as much as we can to create unforgettable moments for those who deserve it the most.”
Barrie Wells, Chairman at Barrie Wells Trust, said “There is this incredible synergy between Seat Unique and my Box4Kids initiative. I am absolutely delighted about the fantastic partnership with them, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds as a chosen charity partner. I am so grateful for this opportunity and just know that Seat Unique is going to help us to make such a difference to so many young people going through such difficult times in their lives”.
We know how important these special moments are, and we're truly grateful that we were able to contribute. We want to take this opportunity to thank the Barrie Wells Trust for their incredible work and everything they do to make a difference.
At Seat Unique, we believe in giving back to our community and making a difference. We hope to continue working with the Barrie Wells Trust in the future to unlock truly memorable experiences for everyone, one event at a time.
How can you help?
If you are a Seat Unique partner, a box rights holder, or an owner who shares our passion for supporting this remarkable charity, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]. Your involvement and support can make a significant impact on the lives we aim to touch.
In addition to our valued partners, Barrie Wells Trust are also on the lookout for dedicated hosts who are willing to join them in managing the day-to-day operations of these events. Your time and commitment can go a long way in ensuring the success of their mission.
Furthermore, if you believe that your child could benefit from the services and opportunities provided by this charity, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Together, with the collective effort of partners, hosts, and families, we can continue to aid in creating meaningful change and opportunities for those who we aim to assist.
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