Partnering for good - Making Space & Wiltshire Farm Foods deliver dining with dignity
Published 23 May 2025
A groundbreaking dining experience held this month in Doncaster is gave people living with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) a rare opportunity to enjoy a meal out in safety and style.
The pop-up event – the first of its kind in the area – was held at the Royal Suite, Doncaster Racecourse, in collaboration between national social care charity Making Space and Wiltshire Farm Foods (WFF) Doncaster.
Timed to coincide with Dementia Action Week (21–25 May), the event catered specifically to people with dysphagia, a condition that commonly affects those living with dementia and other health conditions. Guests enjoyed a free lunchtime menu of award-winning puréed meals such as Pork in Apple Gravy, Salmon in Butter Sauce, and indulgent desserts, all texture-modified for safety without compromising on flavour.
Among the diners was 78-year-old Malcolm Tomlinson, attending with his daughter Amanda, who said:
This pop-up event is a fantastic idea; Dad simply doesn’t have the opportunity to eat out anymore given his swallowing issues; nowhere serves food in a texture that is safe for him to eat. It’s been such a long time since we’ve eaten out together, so today is a real treat.
WFF, known for its innovation in texture-modified meals, provided all food for the event. Its Softer Foods range – developed in consultation with registered dietitians – has earned a Queen’s Award for Innovation and continues to transform dining experiences for those living with dysphagia.
Lydia Woodall, Community Services Manager at Making Space, added:
We’re proud to partner with Wiltshire Farm Foods to raise awareness of dysphagia and support informed, person-centred choices. This is about more than just food – it’s about confidence, connection, and inclusion.
Events like this are only possible thanks to the generosity and collaboration of our corporate partners.
Amid rising operational costs and ongoing funding cuts in social care, corporate sponsorship has never been more vital. Businesses provide not just funding but essential resources that help charities like Making Space deliver life-changing services across the country.
Over the past two years, corporate partners have contributed over £30,000 through sponsorships, donations, and gifts in kind. These funds have supported everything from hardship payments to wellbeing groups and carer respite projects, filling the gaps where statutory funding falls short.
Rachel Peacock, CEO of Making Space, said:
With the care sector facing unprecedented financial challenges, corporate sponsorship has never been more important in helping vulnerable people live independently and with dignity.
Making Space fully supports the Providers Unite campaign, which has highlighted the urgent need for greater investment in social care. With rising costs and funding cuts placing increasing pressure on the sector.
Corporate sponsors play a key role in safeguarding essential services, ensuring people get the support they need when they need it. By partnering with social care providers, businesses can make a tangible impact, helping to protect essential support for vulnerable people and ensuring they can live independent, fulfilling lives.
A huge thank-you to WFF for helping us bring this important event to life – your support truly made a difference.
Corporate donations have already enabled projects such as:
- Online access for carers through donated laptops and tablets
- Wellbeing initiatives like yoga classes, credited with preventing serious injury for older carers
- Independence-building programmes such as cooking and gardening groups in supported living services
Natalie Bargery, Fundraising Lead at Making Space, said:
100% of corporate donations go directly to supporting people through projects that receive no statutory funding. This funding enables us to respond to changing needs and make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Supporting Making Space isn’t just about giving back, it’s about creating lasting change while strengthening your business. Companies that partner with us deliver social value, engage employees, and enhance their brand reputation, all while making a meaningful impact. Corporate social responsibility is more than a buzzword, it’s a competitive advantage that helps businesses attract and retain talent while building stronger communities.
We’re incredibly grateful to Wiltshire Farm Foods for their partnership and generosity – events like this wouldn’t be possible without them.
With continued corporate support, Making Space can keep delivering life-changing projects that empower people, enhance wellbeing, and strengthen communities. The charity welcomes partnerships through sponsorship, corporate donations, payroll giving, and in-kind support. Businesses have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Now is the time to take action. To explore partnership opportunities, contact Making Space at fundraising@makingspace.co.uk or visit makingspace.co.uk/get-involved/fundraising.
Together, Making Space and its corporate partners can build a brighter future for those who rely on vital social care services.