Hosting Cake and Ale (or Cake and Coffee) Parties to Raise Funds for Charity

One of the most enjoyable ways to support a charitable cause is by hosting a cake and ale (or cake and coffee) party. 

These events combine the delightful simplicity of a good cup of coffee, a refreshing ale, and a slice of cake with the powerful impact of fundraising for those in need. 

If you're thinking about organising a charity event, a cake and ale or coffee party can be a low-cost, highly engaging way to bring people together for a good cause.

Why Cake and Ale or Coffee Parties?

Unlike more formal fundraising events, a cake and ale (or coffee) party has a casual, welcoming vibe that encourages community participation. There’s something universally appealing about gathering over homemade bakes and drinks. It doesn’t require a great deal of planning, and the relaxed atmosphere allows guests to connect with each other and learn more about the charity you're supporting.

It’s also an accessible way for anyone to contribute. Many people may shy away from large donations but feel comfortable offering a smaller sum in exchange for something tangible – in this case, a delicious slice of cake or a refreshing drink.

Planning Your Cake and Ale or Coffee Party

To ensure your fundraising event is a success, it’s important to consider a few key points during the planning phase.

1. Set a Date and Location

Choose a date that works for your community. If it’s a work or school-related event, weekends are often the best time. A central, easy-to-access location is crucial. Consider hosting it at home, a community centre, or a local pub or café, if they’re willing to donate the space for the cause.

2. Create a Menu

While cake is the star of the show, you don’t need to stop there. Offer a variety of cakes and bakes to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Whether it's classic Victoria sponges, rich brownies, gluten-free options, or even savoury bakes, variety will help attract more attendees. Pair the cakes with a selection of drinks—tea, coffee, and perhaps, ale for a more traditional touch.

If you have baking talents within your community, encourage friends or family to contribute cakes. The more, the merrier!

3. Price Your Bakes

Pricing can be tricky, but the goal is to raise as much money as possible while ensuring guests feel they’re getting value for their donation. Consider a suggested donation per slice of cake or a set price for an entry ticket, which could include a couple of slices of cake and a drink.

Alternatively, you can have a “pay what you feel” donation system, which can work well if your guests are keen on the cause and feel generous.

4. Involve Your Charity or church

Make sure you promote the charity you are raising funds for throughout the event. You can display posters or banners that explain the charity’s mission and why it is important. Include a donation box for those who wish to contribute more and provide information on how they can continue supporting the charity after the event.

5. Spread the Word

Promoting your cake and ale or coffee party is key. Use social media, local community boards, and word of mouth to get the message out. Create a fun event page or invite your friends and colleagues directly. Emphasise that it's not just about enjoying cakes and drinks, but also supporting a meaningful cause.

Make It Fun and Engaging

Adding some light activities can make the event even more enjoyable. Consider a bake-off competition where guests can vote on their favourite cakes, or hold a raffle or auction to raise additional funds. A quiz or small games can help break the ice and create a more dynamic atmosphere.

The Impact of Your Event

A cake and ale or coffee party might seem like a small event, but it can have a big impact. Even if you’re only able to raise a modest amount, it all contributes to the larger efforts of the charity. Additionally, these events build awareness and community spirit, which can inspire people to take further action for the cause.

Moreover, they can become a recurring event in your community, growing year on year. Whether it's an annual charity bake sale at work or a quarterly neighbourhood coffee gathering for charity, these events can establish a tradition of giving back.

Conclusion

Cake and ale (or coffee) parties are a brilliant way to raise funds for charity while creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere. It’s an opportunity to bring your community together over something as simple as a slice of cake, while making a tangible difference for a cause that matters. With a bit of planning and creativity, your event can become a meaningful, impactful, and enjoyable tradition.

So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and raise a glass or mug to doing good!

Why Visiting Charity Shops to Donate or Buy Items is a Positive Action

In recent years, the concept of charity shopping has evolved from a niche activity to a mainstream choice for both savvy shoppers and socially conscious individuals. 

Whether you’re donating pre-loved items or buying something unique, visiting charity shops can have far-reaching benefits for individuals, communities, and the environment. 

Here’s why it’s such a positive action.

1. Supporting a Good Cause

One of the most significant reasons to visit a charity shop is to support the cause it represents. Every purchase and donation helps fund vital services, whether it’s medical research, homelessness relief, or animal welfare. By choosing to shop or donate to charity shops, you’re contributing directly to the sustainability of these charities, ensuring they can continue their important work in society.

2. Promoting Sustainability

Charity shops play an essential role in promoting sustainable living. When you donate items, you’re giving them a new lease of life rather than contributing to landfill waste. This act of recycling helps reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing new goods. Similarly, buying second-hand reduces the demand for fast fashion and new consumer goods, which are major contributors to environmental degradation. Every item you buy in a charity shop is one less item that needs to be produced, saving energy and resources.

3. Affordable Shopping

Charity shops offer high-quality goods at a fraction of the cost compared to high street retailers. Whether it’s clothing, books, homeware, or furniture, there’s always something for everyone, and often you can find excellent bargains or rare, one-of-a-kind items. For those on a budget or looking to save money, charity shops provide a wonderful alternative to conventional retail.

4. Fostering a Sense of Community

Charity shops are often staffed by volunteers who are passionate about the cause they support. By visiting these shops, you’re contributing to the sense of community they create. You might strike up a conversation with a staff member or fellow shopper, learn more about local issues, or even get involved yourself as a volunteer. It’s a space where people can connect and contribute to something bigger than themselves.

5. Decluttering with Purpose

Donating to charity shops provides a meaningful way to declutter your home. Instead of throwing away clothes or items you no longer use, you can pass them on to someone who might need them. It’s a win-win situation – you get to tidy up your living space, and the charity shop gets more stock to sell, helping them raise more funds. This process of giving makes decluttering not just a chore, but an act of generosity and goodwill.

6. Encouraging Mindful Consumption

Shopping in charity shops can lead to more mindful consumption. Unlike fast fashion or large retailers, where items are often bought impulsively, charity shop purchases tend to be more considered. You may spend time searching for the perfect item, and when you find something, it feels like a treasure rather than just another purchase. This shift in mindset helps reduce overconsumption, encouraging people to buy what they need and appreciate the value of second-hand goods.

7. A Unique Shopping Experience

Charity shops offer an eclectic and ever-changing range of products. You never know what you might find – from vintage clothing to rare books or even antiques. This element of surprise makes charity shopping an exciting and enjoyable experience. It’s the perfect place for those who enjoy the thrill of discovering something unique, often at a fraction of its original price.

My wife and I have often found brand new kitchen and cookery items all at a fraction of the original price. And some charity shops help the local economy by offering seed, produce and food swaps.

And new or used items found within a local charity shop can make for excellent Christmas presents.

8. Encouraging Local Economies

Many charity shops are independently run, supporting both local causes and employment in their communities. When you shop or donate to a local charity shop, you're helping create jobs, offering work experience opportunities, and supporting small-scale businesses that partner with these organisations. This helps stimulate local economies, ensuring that money is reinvested into the community rather than being funnelled into large corporations.

Conclusion

Visiting charity shops, whether to donate or buy, is not just an act of kindness or a smart shopping choice—it’s a way to contribute positively to society. It supports important charitable causes, promotes sustainability, encourages mindful consumption, and fosters a sense of community. Next time you’re decluttering or looking for something new, consider your local charity shop—it’s a small action that can have a big impact.

Using Your Cooking Skills to Raise Funds for Charitable Causes

Cooking is more than just a necessary life skill; it's a wonderful way to bring people together, share cultures, and create lasting memories. 

If you have a passion for cooking, why not use it to make a difference in your community?

Here’s a guide on how to use your culinary talents to raise funds for charitable causes.

1. Host a Charity Bake Sale

A bake sale is a classic fundraising event that never goes out of style. It’s simple to organise and can be held in various locations, such as local churches schools, workplaces, community centres, or even at local events.

Steps to Organise a Bake Sale:

Choose a Date and Venue: Ensure it’s a place with good foot traffic.

Get Volunteers: More hands make light work, and it’s more fun with friends.

Bake a Variety of Goods: Offer a range of items to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements.

Set Up a Stall: Make it attractive and welcoming.

Promote Your Event: Use social media, posters, and word of mouth to get the word out.

Price Items Reasonably: Encourage donations as well.

2. Organise a Charity Cook-Off

A cook-off is a fun and engaging way to raise funds. Invite participants to cook their best dishes and compete for a prize, while spectators pay an entry fee to taste and vote.

Steps to Organise a Cook-Off:

Secure a Venue: A community hall or a large outdoor space works well.

Decide on Categories: Appetisers, mains, desserts, or a specific cuisine.

Gather Participants: Chefs, home cooks, and food enthusiasts.

Enlist Judges: Local celebrities or chefs can draw more attention.

Promote the Event: Use local media and social media platforms.

Sell Tickets: Charge an entry fee for tasters.

3. Hold a Charity Dinner

A charity dinner can be a more formal event, ideal for attracting donations from local businesses and individuals willing to pay a higher price for a special evening.

Steps to Organise a Charity Dinner:

Plan the Menu: Create a multi-course meal that will impress your guests.

Choose a Venue: Consider restaurants, community centres, or private homes.

Sell Tickets: Set a price that covers your costs and raises funds.

Create an Atmosphere: Decorate the venue to make it inviting.

Include Entertainment: Live music, a raffle, or a silent auction can add to the event.

Publicise the Event: Use social media, local press, and community boards.

4. Run a Cooking Class

Sharing your skills through a cooking class can be both educational and profitable. Participants pay to learn how to cook a specific dish or cuisine, with proceeds going to charity.

Steps to Organise a Cooking Class:

Choose a Theme: Decide on the type of cuisine or specific dishes.

Find a Venue: Ensure it has adequate kitchen facilities.

Set a Date and Time: Weekends or evenings might attract more participants.

Promote the Class: Use flyers, social media, and community boards.

Charge a Fee: Ensure it’s enough to cover costs and make a profit for the charity.

Provide Materials: Ingredients, recipes, and any necessary equipment.

5. Host a Potluck Charity Event

A potluck is a great way to involve the community. Each participant brings a dish, and you can charge an entry fee for those who wish to taste and enjoy the spread.

Steps to Organise a Potluck:

Invite Participants: Reach out to friends, family, and community members.

Coordinate Dishes: Ensure a variety of dishes to avoid duplicates.

Choose a Venue: A local park, community centre, or someone's home.

Set Entry Fees: Charge a nominal fee for those not bringing a dish.

Promote the Event: Use social media, local bulletin boards, and word of mouth.

Final Thoughts

Using your cooking skills to raise funds for charity is a rewarding way to give back to the community. Not only do you get to share your passion for food, but you also get to connect with others and make a positive impact. Whether you’re organising a bake sale, a cook-off, a formal dinner, a cooking class, or a potluck, the key is to plan carefully, promote effectively, and create an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Happy cooking and fundraising!

UK’s biggest food collection calls for volunteers to support charities

With food banks and charities facing increasing levels of need this wintertime, people are being urged to give the gift of their time to take part in the UK’s biggest food donation drive.

The Tesco Food Collection is taking place in all Tesco stores from November 30th to December 2nd and the Trussell Trust and FareShare are urging volunteers to sign-up to support the event in store. 

It comes as both charities face their busiest winter yet as more people turn to them for support. The Trussell Trust, which has the largest foodbank network in the UK, is expecting to distribute more than 1 million emergency food parcels between December and February, while FareShare has over 1,500 frontline charities on its waiting list seeking food.

During the collection Tesco customers are to be encouraged to donate long-life food to support the charities in their work. Donations for the Trussell Trust will help its network of food banks provide emergency food parcels to people who cannot afford the essentials, while donations to FareShare will get food to its network of 8,500 local charities and community groups.  

Tesco is calling on volunteers to staff collection points to raise awareness of the impact every donation will have on people across the UK, who rely on Trussell Trust and FareShare for food.

Donations are needed now more than ever, with one in five Trussell Trust food parcels coming from Tesco and its customers. 

Trussell Trust Chief Executive Emma Revie said: “This winter is going to be the toughest yet for the food banks in our network as they will help approximately 600,000 people and provide an emergency parcel every eight seconds. The teams in our food banks are working tirelessly to ensure everyone receives the support they need but they cannot do it alone. 

"By volunteering at the Tesco Winter Food Collection you will not only be helping to gather much-needed donations to keep your local food bank going, you’ll also be making a real difference to families who cannot afford the essentials in your community. If you can spare a few hours to volunteer then please do.”

George Wright, chief executive at FareShare added: “We anticipate need will keep rising as people continue to struggle to afford the essentials like food and heating this winter. Tesco’s support for FareShare throughout the cost of living crisis, and the last 11 years, has been unwavering, and we’re incredibly grateful for their support in helping drive more donations during what will be a difficult winter for many.

“Volunteers play a huge role in the success of the Tesco Food Collection each year. By giving up just three hours of your time, you can make a huge impact by helping more people understand the importance If donating food to FareShare during this increasingly difficult time.”

Claire De Silva, Head of Community at Tesco, said: “Every year our Winter Food Collection gets such an amazing response from our customers. We know that they give even more generously when we have volunteers in our stores helping them to choose the right items that are needed so we would urge anyone who can to please sign up and help make a difference.” 

You can sign up to volunteer with FareShare at https://fareshare.org.uk/foodcollection/ or with the Trussell Trust at https://www.trusselltrust.org/get-involved/tesco-food-collection/volunteer/ 

Salcombe Gin Partners With the Heroic RNLI to Launch 'Four Seas' Gin With Every Bottle Helping Save Lives at Sea

With a love and respect for the sea at the heart of everything they do, multi-award winning Salcombe Gin is delighted to have partnered with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) to launch 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin. 

Commemorating the charity's upcoming 200th anniversary, the new classic London dry gin is a true celebration of British and Irish coastal community spirit.  

Available now and for the next two years, every bottle of 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin will help save lives at sea, with 10% of the net price of every bottle sold proudly donated to the vital work of the RNLI. 

'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin is available in a 70cl bottle, at £39.50, ABV 40% from salcombegin.com, Salcombe Gin's Dartmouth and Salcombe stores, plus via Master of Malt, Amazon and leading independent retailers throughout the country.

It's a relaxed and inclusive gin, 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin is crafted for everyday heroes, everyday occasions and for those who love to be close to the sea.  Adhering to the same exacting London Dry standard as their iconic and global award-winning citrus led Salcombe Gin 'Start Point', 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin draws inspiration from their journey around the British coastline to where the four seas that surround our island nation, the Atlantic Ocean, Irish Sea, English Channel and North Sea, all meet our shores. The same four seas served and protected by the heroic RNLI.  

Beautifully balanced, 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin showcases four key botanicals and is led by lemons smoked over Scottish whisky barrel wood chips, tangy sea buckthorn from where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Cornish coast, sugar kelp foraged from the Irish sea providing a richness and a hint of salinity and elderberries from wildest Wales, giving an earthy floral sweetness.   

On the nose there's zesty fresh lemons, smoky citrus and classic juniper, followed by a citrusy tang and sweetness from the sea buckthorn with underlying floral and earthy layers on the palate, too. 

The finish is reportedly smooth, rich and warming, with a slightly saline tone, reminding you of its coastal influence and origin. 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin contains no colourants and no added sugar.

Appealing to gin drinkers both old and new, just serve 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin in a highball glass with four ingredients; gin, premium Indian tonic, ice and lemon or in a cocktail to showcase the subtle notes of smoked citrus and the hint of sea salt.

Like all the products in Salcombe Gin's portfolio, it contains no plastic packaging and has biodegradable cellulose tamper proof seals, 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin uses a totally natural cork and wooden stopper.

Commenting on the partnership, Co-founder and Director of Salcombe Distilling Co., Angus Lugsdin says:  “Spending years working at sea and having grown up learning to sail in Salcombe and watching with fascination as a child when the Salcombe Lifeboat was called out,  it's hard to express just exactly how thrilled I am about the collaboration between Salcombe Gin and the RNLI.  

"Having spent years offshore myself and having undergoing sea survival training myself, I have the utmost respect for the RNLI and its dedicated volunteers who generously devote their time to safeguarding and rescuing lives at sea, ensuring a safer environment for us all."

Angus went on to say: “It obviously fills the Salcombe Gin team with immense pride and pleasure to join forces with the RNLI, knowing that the sale of 'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin will contribute to our coastal communities and support the RNLI in their crucial missions.  What's more, as part of our special two-year partnership, we'll also contribute 10% of the net price of every bottle sold of our Salcombe Rum 'Island Street' to the RNLI, too.”

Mark Dowie, RNLI CEO adds: “We're delighted to partner with Salcombe Gin and welcome their kind support. And because Salcombe Gin is made in my hometown, I'm obviously hoping for great things!”

Mark went on toy say: “For almost two centuries the RNLI has been saving lives at sea.  All of the essential training and equipment for our lifeboat crews and lifeguards is only possible because of the donations we receive from our generous partners and our supporters.  Our partnership with Salcombe Gin will raise vital funds to help us continue our lifesaving work.”

The perfect partnership, Salcombe Gin draws influence from the coastal vitality of Salcombe and its shipbuilding heritage.  They produce internationally acclaimed gins at their waterside distillery on Island Street in Salcombe, one of the world's only distilleries directly accessible by boat.  'Four Seas' by Salcombe Gin joins Salcombe Gin's outstanding line-up of Salcombe Gin 'Start Point', Salcombe Gin 'Rosé Sainte Marie', Salcombe Gin 'Start Point - Offshore Strength' and their exclusive Voyager Series.

Since 1824, the story of the RNLI is one of courage and dedication.  Across their almost 200-year history, RNLI lifesavers have answered the call to rescue, day or night, on calm seas or in ferocious storms.  If someone is in peril at sea, the RNLI will do all they can to save them.  Since the charity launched its first lifeboat in 1824, the RNLI has saved over 144,000 lives at sea.

For further information about Salcombe Gin, visit www.salcombegin.com, follow Salcombe Gin on Instagram and Facebook. For further information about the RNLI's work, visit www.rnli.org or follow RNLI on Facebook.

That's Food and Drink believes this will make a superb Christmas gift or birthday present this year. 

Boutique lunch raises almost £3,000 for Francis House Children's Hospice

“Francis House is an amazing charity, and we were proud to be sponsors of the Boutique Lunch.

A glamorous Boutique Lunch at Gusto Italian Restaurant in Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire, raised £2,700 for the Francis House Children’s Hospice.

The event was sponsored by Sinclair Law and supported by ladies’ fashion retailer Flair Boutique UK.

Lucy Hart, director of Sinclair Law based in Wilmslow said: “Francis House is an amazing charity, and we were proud to be sponsors of the Boutique Lunch. A fabulous afternoon was experienced by all in support of this incredible charity.”

A variety of stalls from chocolates to handbags, fashion to skincare were on hand for guests to browse including Jewellery from Deanne, Beehive Boutique Manchester, Tropics with Shirlie, Henshaw’s House of Cocoa, and Cheshire Home Fragrance, all adding to the relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

Based in Didsbury, Francis House supports over 600 families from across the Greater Manchester and Cheshire region with respite care, homecare, sibling support, emotional and bereavement support.

At the lunch, guests enjoyed a special two-course lunch and a fashion show of new season styles by Flair Boutique UK.

Singer Andrew Alty performed beautiful ballads and had everyone up on their feet dancing to Sweet Caroline.

Guest Victoria Young commented on the event: “I had a fantastic afternoon catching up with networking colleagues and raising money for such a worthy cause, it was a lovely afternoon with beautiful food and flowing drinks and even had chance to do a little retail therapy from the stalls that were showcasing their lovely items – a great afternoon and highly recommend, we can’t wait for the next one.”

Raffle prizes included a handbag, beauty hamper, chocolate hamper and a diamond necklace donated by Beaverbrooks.

Lucy Thompson, events manager of Francis House said: “A big thank you to all the ladies that came along and supported our Boutique Lunch. The atmosphere was great, and everyone was so generous with their donations.’’

Tickets are now on sale for the Francis House ‘Let’s Party’ Christmas Ball at the Concorde Conference Centre on December 1. To book for this unmissable event visit www.francishouse.org.uk/christmas-ball

Sainsbury’s Local helps bring new lease of life to Jericho redevelopment site

Sainsbury’s customers in Oxford have the opportunity to check out a brand-new Sainsbury’s Local, following the opening of the retailer’s latest store as part of the redevelopment of the Jericho Health Centre on the corner of Walton Street and Cranham Street, in Oxford. Colleagues are pictured gathering to cut the ribbon and celebrate the launch of the new store.

Conveniently situated just north of Oxford's city centre, the 2,745 sq. ft. store will serve customers between the hours of 7am and 11pm every day.

Local residents, workers and shoppers now have the chance to pick up a bite to eat from Sainsbury’s delicious selection of sandwiches and ‘food to go’, plus being able to pick up a hot drink from the shop's self-service Costa coffee facility. 

What's more, delicious fresh bread and pastries will be baked in the store itself every day and it will also stock a superb range of great value, high quality fresh foods, fruit and vegetables, plus other grocery and household products, besides.

Customers will also be able to collect products from the much-loved brands of Argos, Habitat and Tu Clothing, ordered online and delivered via the in-store Click and Collect service.

The 19 colleagues that make up the new store team plan to play an active role in the local community whilst also taking part in Sainsbury’s nationwide charitable programmes and initiatives. For example, through Sainsbury’s partnership with Neighbourly, the new Local will work with local food donation partners to help ensure any surplus food from the store will go to those who are truly in need.

Patrick Dunne, who is Sainsbury’s Property Director, said: "We're thrilled  to introduce a brand new Sainsbury’s Local to customers in Oxford today with the opening of our latest convenience store on the estate. Our investment in Jericho hasn't only generated new job opportunities for local people but also enhanced convenience and choice in the neighbourhood while bringing Sainsbury’s great value, high-quality products closer to more of our customers.”

Carla Browning, Sainsbury’s Oxford Walton Street Local Store Manager, said: “It’s been fantastic to cut the ribbon and open our new store today after weeks of hard work to get everything ready to welcome customers for the first time.

"We feel our new store has lots to offer the local community and my team and I are really looking forward to helping and serving the people of Jericho for years to come.”

Sainsbury’s is working hard to ensure that as a business it is operating sustainably, for example by reducing plastic across its operations and supply chain as one of its key priorities. Most recently, the retailer announced that it has removed plastic trays from its by Sainsbury’s steak range, replacing them with a cardboard tray alternative, as previously covered by That's Food and Drink.

Tesco shoppers called to help raise vital funds in charity’s fight against food allergies

Shoppers at Tesco are being asked to help an ongoing in-store and online allergy awareness and fundraising campaign to support medical research into food allergies.

For the fourth year running, Tesco is working with The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation by donating 10p from every Tesco own brand Free From product customers purchase in stores and online throughout the week. More than £270,000 has been raised for the Foundation since the start of the partnership in 2020.

All money raised through generous customer donations will help Natasha’s Foundation continue its research into reducing the risks of food allergies and raise awareness around ingredient labelling.

Natasha’s Foundation was founded in 2019 by Tanya and Nadim Ednan-Laperouse OBE, following the tragic loss of their daughter Natasha, who had a fatal allergic reaction to a baguette that contained sesame seeds not listed on the packaging.

Tanya Ednan-Laperouse OBE, said: “We’re thrilled that Tesco is supporting us for the fourth year running, helping us raise essential funds to deliver our mission to #MakeAllergyHistory and better the lives of up to 3 million people in the UK living with food allergies."

Oonagh Turnbull, Head of Health Campaigns at Tesco, said: “Tesco was the first UK supermarket to develop a Free From range to help customers with food allergies, or other special dietary needs to enjoy the food they want to eat. Since its launch in 2003, our own brand Free From range has grown to 176 products across all categories, many of which are award-winning. We are delighted to continue to support Tanya and Nadim, and the Foundation’s crucial and potentially life-saving research.”

Tesco is an eight-time winner of the Retailer of the Year title at the annual Free From Food Awards.

Hattiers Rum Takes on the Great Glen Way Canoe Trail for Mental Health Awareness Week

'Three Men In A Tub' Raise over £1600 Taking On The Great Glen Way Canoe Trail

Raising awareness for men's mental health, Philip Everett-Lyons, founder and CEO of South Devon's prestigious Hattiers Rum, took on the Great Glen Way Canoe Trail with two of his closest friends, Martin Davidson and Rik Dyson. 

Having taken place ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week (Monday 15th May), the trio set out to raise vital funds from the challenge for mental health charity, Mind and are proud to announce they have raised a total of £1610 so far.

Their journey started on Sunday 7th May and took five days to complete, covering 60 miles in their canoes. The Great Glen Way Canoe Trail is one of Scotland's classic and most challenging canoe journeys.  

A geographical fault line forms the Great Glen Way splitting Scotland in two and is steeped in history and folklore tales. The canoe journey started in Fort William on the Caledonian Canal before entering the open water of three Scottish lochs; Lochy, Oich and Ness. 

“The purpose of the trip was to highlight mental health challenges experienced by many men of our age and the pressures that we face, coupled with the fact that multi-generations have become used to suppressing their feelings and just 'getting on with it'”, explains Philip Everett-Lyons. 

Philip went on to say: “Whilst the trip was an amazing adventure, at points it turned into a real challenge! We faced a strong headwind coming through Loch Ness and continuous downpours, which obviously added to the physical challenge itself. The trip gave us the opportunity to come together and support each other at the end of each day. We opened up to one another, having much-needed meaningful conversations about our everyday struggles.

For years the phrase 'man up' has been used flippantly and often under the guise of 'banter' but this has been damaging and sometimes devastating for some men who have felt that they had nobody to talk to or share their worries with, apart from their spouse and often opting to soldier on alone until it's too late.”

In further support of Mind, Hattiers offered a bespoke discount code which meant any bottle of Hattiers Rum that was ordered between 6th May until the 14th May, received 10% off with a further 10% being donated from Hattiers to Mind, Hattiers then donated an additional £250 to the charity. 

Sainsbury's is very Neighbourly as it donates 10 million meals

Sainsbury’s has reached a significant meal donation milestone with food re-distribution partner Neighbourly, saving 4,500 tonnes of food going to waste.

The move brings Sainsbury’s a step nearer in its pledge to reduce food waste across its value chain by 50% by 2030.

The partnership is just one way in which Sainsbury’s supports communities with access to food, with its newly launched Nourish the Nation programme recently donating £3 million to help fight food poverty

Sainsbury’s has announced it's reached a significant milestone with Neighbourly, having donated its 10 millionth meal to those facing food insecurity in 18 months.

Sainsbury's has worked with Neighbourly since 2021 to connect all its stores with local charity partners, helping to manage surplus food donations. Via this partnership, both ambient and fresh groceries can be donated to a store’s connected charity, helping Sainsbury’s to redistribute food to those facing food poverty in local communities.

The partnership with Neighbourly has prevented 4,500 tonnes of food from going to waste, a move which has reduced carbon emissions by over 16,000 tonnes. Meanwhile, through using the Neighbourly platform, Sainsbury’s has donated food to over 2,500 good causes across the UK, that help four million people every week.

In just the week leading up to Christmas over 335,000 meals were provided to local charities which support over 1,227,000 people weekly all over the UK, helping to support communities over the festive period.

Ruth Cranston, who is Sainsbury’s Director of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, said: “We have donated food to charities and community groups since 1998, but our partnership with Neighbourly has really helped us accelerate how many people we can help.

"We know our partnership is more important than ever before with food banks facing more demand than before. Supporting the communities we serve with the rising cost of living is important to us, it’s why we are pleased to hit such a huge milestone of donating 10 million meals. 

"We’re incredibly proud of this partnership and have worked hard in engaging our stores and they have done a great job in driving this forward. We look forward to continuing our work with Neighbourly.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO of Neighbourly, said: "Sainsbury’s is genuinely committed to local action and we’re pleased to be accelerating the scheme to help forge strong community collaboration between their stores and charity partners whilst combatting the environmental impact of wasted food.

"The current cost-of-living crisis means more families than ever before are relying on their local community charities for food and other services, and this scheme is making a huge difference to thousands of local groups and the people they support."

Working with Neighbourly to donate surplus food is just one of the ways Sainsbury’s is able to supports those who are facing food insecurity. In November 2022, it launched Nourish the Nation - a long-term programme designed specifically to tackle food poverty with Comic Relief.

The programme funds initiatives that help communities access balanced, nutritional and sustainable food now, as well as supporting projects that help prevent people and communities falling further into food poverty in the future. Sainsbury's kicked off Nourish the Nation with a £3 million donation, and it follows 24 years of work with Comic Relief, in which time over £153 million has been raised.