Rowcroft Hospice serves up new fundraising campaign with 'Dine & Donate'

Rowcroft Hospice has launched a new and heartwarming fundraising campaign called ‘Dine & Donate’, inviting restaurants, pubs, and cafés across South Devon to support local hospice care one meal at a time.

The initiative encourages hospitality venues to offer customers the chance to add a small, optional donation of £1 or more to their bill. Every penny raised goes directly to Rowcroft Hospice, helping fund specialist end-of-life care for over 2,500 patients and their families each year.

Lisa Whittaker, Corporate Fundraiser at Rowcroft, described the campaign as “a simple, meaningful way for people to support hospice care in our community while enjoying the best of local hospitality”.

“A small, optional donation on your bill might seem like a tiny gesture,” she said, “but when put together with other customers’ donations, it all adds up to make a huge difference to those facing the hardest times imaginable.”

Participating venues can choose how to get involved. Some are adding creative menu items like ‘invisible chips’ - a humorous take on a charity donation - while others simply add a donation line to the bill or pledge a portion of profits from certain dishes.

Pier Point Bar and Restaurant in Torquay was one of the first to embrace the idea. Owner Lorraine Arnold said: “We’re delighted to see our ‘invisible chips’ campaign inspiring others. It doesn’t have to be chips, it could be a £1 add-on or donating proceeds from a particular dish. Our customers love it, and it sparks conversations about giving back. Most importantly, our team really believes in it.”

The campaign comes at a critical time for the hospice, which has seen increased demand for services, rising costs, and reduced charitable donations, all while receiving just 24% of its funding from the NHS.

Like many UK hospices, Rowcroft is facing serious financial challenges driven by the cost-of-living crisis and broader economic uncertainty. The charity has stressed the importance of community-driven initiatives like Dine & Donate to sustain its essential work.

“We’re calling on eateries across South Devon to get involved,” said Lisa. “Whether you’re running a small café or a busy restaurant, you can make a difference. And if you’re a customer, suggest it to your favourite spot; it’s a great way to show local love.”

Founded in 1982, Rowcroft Hospice has become a pillar of compassionate care in the region, providing support at home, in the community, and in its inpatient unit in Torquay. Its holistic approach includes nursing, medical care, bereavement support, and complementary therapies, all offered free of charge to patients.

To learn more about how to participate or find a venue already involved, visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/dine-and-donate or contact Lisa Whittaker at 01803 210835.

Because in South Devon, kindness is always on the menu.