Leicester Hospitals Charity and Leicester City Football Club team up to raise funds for life-saving neonatal equipment

Players Caleb Okoli and James Justin of Leicester City Football Club made a special visit to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Leicester Royal Infirmary as part of The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation’s support for Leicester Hospitals Charity, one of its nominated charities for the 2024/25 season.

During the visit, Caleb and James met dedicated medical staff, families and some of the smallest patients cared for in the NICU, witnessing the work being carried out to support premature and seriously ill babies.

James said: “It is inspiring to see how much care and attention goes into looking after these tiny babies. Visiting the neonatal unit really puts things into perspective and the strength of the families and the dedication of the staff is incredible.”

“The technology they’re looking to introduce will make a huge difference, and we’re proud to help raise awareness and funds for such a vital campaign.”

The game against Southampton at King Power Stadium, the first weekend in May, was dedicated to Leicester Hospitals Charity, with fundraising efforts led by staff and volunteers aiming to support the purchase of state-of-the-art neonatal equipment.

Central to this initiative is the funding of a new ultrasound scanner and 4D probe, which will offer faster and more precise diagnostics for vulnerable newborns. The introduction of this equipment will not only improve clinical outcomes but also provide reassurance and comfort to families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Head of Charity at Leicester Hospitals Charity Sunita Patel says: “Leicester City Football Club and The Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation have been true partners to us over the past decade – not just in spirit, but in action.

“Leicester’s hospitals are committed to transforming patient care, and staff working at the neonatal unit can do just that with the help of state-of-the-art technology such as a portable heart scanner and a 4D imaging probe. Through this partnership, we aim to raise £80,000 in May, with an incredible £60,000 already being raised by season ticket holders earlier this year.”

Leicester Hospitals Charity exists to support patients, their carers and the staff who look after them in Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland and beyond. Through targeted fundraising campaigns and effective management of donations, the charity provides additional resources, assets and skills that link closely with the strategic aims of Leicester’s hospitals and the broader strategic aims of NHS healthcare in the East Midlands.