Join Rowcroft Hospice by conquering Kilimanjaro

Rowcroft Hospice is inviting adventure-seekers to join them on the challenge of a lifetime in 2026 by climbing the famous mountain - the tallest peak in Africa. 

Taking place from September 3 and 13, the trip provides a chance to achieve something extraordinary while raising vital funds to support Rowcroft’s end-of-life care for patients and families across South Devon.

Whether you’re an experienced trekker or a first-time adventurer, this once-in-a-lifetime experience is open to everyone. 

It offers a fully supported climb led by expert guides, breathtaking views as you ascend to the roof of Africa, and the chance to join a team united by a meaningful cause — making a profound difference for local families in need.

Hayley Townsend, Challenges Fundraiser at Rowcroft Hospice said: "Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is an incredible opportunity to take on the challenge of a lifetime and make a difference for families in our community facing the toughest of times. 

“This challenge is about pushing boundaries, embracing adventure and coming together to support Rowcroft’s vital care. We’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure it’s an unforgettable experience and together, we can reach new heights.”

For those interested in learning more about the challenge, Rowcroft Hospice is hosting an information evening on Wednesday February 5, from 7 PM – 9 PM at Rowcroft Hospice, Rainbow House, Ella’s Gardens, Avenue Road, Torquay, TQ2 5LS. 

The evening will give attendees the chance to explore the full itinerary for the trek, hear inspiring words from Rowcroft’s CEO Mark Hawkins, who climbed Mount Kilimanjaro in 2024, learn about fundraising and support opportunities, ask questions, and meet fellow adventurers.

Spaces for the information evening are limited, so please visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk/kilimanjaro to find out more and register your interest. 

It takes time, compassion, medical expertise and money to help patients and families make the most of every day, but every year Rowcroft Hospice helps around 2,500 people living with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon to do just that.

By providing comfort, support and specialist services, the hospice enables families to share precious and joyful moments when they are needed most – whether it’s a beautiful wedding, remarkable reunion, simple thank you or gentle cuddle.

Above: Rowcroft Hospice CEO Mark Hawkins (right) at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro

From Dartmouth to Dawlish and up onto Dartmoor, Rowcroft cares for 80% of its patients in their own homes with a team of community nurse specialists, social workers, and bereavement volunteers. The team also provides occupational therapy, physiotherapy, complementary therapy, spiritual care and music therapy, delivering a holistic approach tailored to individual needs.

Day and night, Rowcroft’s award-winning Hospice at Home team provide free specialist support to patients at home in their last few of weeks of life. The team helps to monitor and manage symptoms to enable patients to be comfortable and also offers support for loved ones, enabling carers to take much needed breaks. The service includes a dedicated telephone support line 24 hrs a day.

In Rowcroft’s 12-bedded Inpatient Unit in Torquay, the hospice’s team provides specialist care for patients whose complex needs cannot be met at home. Along with high quality health and social care, we also offer delicious homecooked meals and access to our beautiful gardens. The welcoming and homely environment helps patients and families to make the most of precious time together.

Rowcroft is an independent charity with around 75% of its funding derived from the incredible generosity of local people. The hospice team fully acknowledges the current challenging economic climate and is grateful for the local community’s continued support through these tough times; every pound raised makes a real difference.

With an increasingly ageing local population, the demand for Rowcroft’s care has never been greater. The charity currently cares for around one in three people with life-limiting illnesses across South Devon and has ambitious plans to expand its care to reach more people. 

For more information, please visit www.rowcrofthospice.org.uk or contact Shala Weeks, Marketing Projects Manager, on (01803) 210 846 or email weekss@rowcrofthospice.org.uk