GUILDFORD, U.K. -- siptel, a leading independent new generation IT, voice and data solutions provider, has sponsored the annual charity ball and silent auction held at Hoe Bridge School, in Woking. The summer ball, held on 6th July 2013, was an extravaganza open to all staff and parents, past and present, and took place in a marquee in the school grounds.

The two chosen charities were “LinkAble” (formerly Link Leisure) and “Plan”, both Woking-based charities. LinkAble provides sports, social and recreational activities for children and adults with a broad range of learning disabilities, ranging from mild developmental delay to profound or more complex needs such as cerebral palsy and severe autism. The charity was founded in 1989 by a former social worker who, witnessing the isolation suffered by both these individuals and their families, recognised the need to provide them with access to some form of social life. The charity’s work is more than just simply a provision of activities: it offers members the opportunity to develop their confidence and social skills and to form friendships.

Plan is a global children’s charity, working with the world’s poorest children so they can move themselves from a life of poverty to a future with opportunity. Plan's activities are guided by the principals of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and other internationally-recognised human rights treaties. Their community-led, child-centred approach means that their work is tailored to local needs. The majority of Plan’s income is from child sponsorship but as in this case, they also receive donations and grants. At least 80p in every pound donated is spent on supporting and delivering their development work.

siptel not only provided sponsorship for the ball, they also donated an Apple iPhone5 to the auction. Dominic Lowry of Hoe Bridge School, commented on the event:

“The ball was a great success and we raised just over £19,000 for the two charities, which was fantastic. The auction was run very well and we are delighted that siptel were able to sponsor this event, helping to raise funds for two very worthwhile charities.”

Steve Rasmussen, Director at siptel, added:

“By supporting such worthy charities as LinkAble and Plan, as well as Hoe Bridge School, it is nice for siptel to feel that we are giving valuable input into the local community.”