Celebrating innovation, leadership and impact
Rowcroft Hospice is delighted to announce it won three awards at the Torbay Weekly Naturally Inspiring Business Awards 2025. The evening celebrated local businesses making a positive difference across the region, and Rowcroft was honoured to be recognised alongside many inspiring organisations. These awards highlight the hospice’s commitment to innovation, compassionate leadership, and meaningful impact within the South Devon community.
Innovation Award: Supporting the nurses of tomorrow
Rowcroft received the Innovation Award for its student nurse bursary programme, delivered in partnership with Plymouth and Exeter Universities. The programme provides essential financial support and practical experience to student nurses undertaking placements at Rowcroft, helping to train and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Paige Ogden, Newly Qualified Nurse at Rowcroft, attended the awards evening and said:
“I think I can say on behalf of all of us that it’s amazing to be recognised and show people how well this bursary has worked. It’s given me confidence and allowed me to constantly grow within my role at the hospice. Everyone at Rowcroft has been nothing but supportive whilst we’ve been transitioning.”
This award was shared with joint winners, QLM Technology, recognised for their pioneering work developing technology to tackle methane emissions – a critical challenge in the fight against climate change.
Inspirational Leadership Award: Recognising CEO Mark Hawkins
Rowcroft’s Chief Executive, Mark Hawkins, was presented with the James Wright Award for Inspirational Leadership. Mark’s vision, compassion, and commitment to excellence in end-of-life care have made a profound impact on the organisation and the wider community. This award is a fitting tribute to his leadership and the values he embodies on behalf of Rowcroft Hospice.
Mark said: “Winning the James Wright Award for Inspirational Leadership is a personal honour that I’m incredibly humbled to receive but these awards are a true reflection of the passion, dedication, and innovation that runs through every part of our hospice.
“I’m absolutely delighted that Rowcroft won three awards at this year’s Torbay Business Awards, it’s a huge moment for our whole Rowcroft family!”
Business of the Year Award: A proud achievement
In a truly special moment, Rowcroft Hospice was named Overall Business of the Year – selected from among all category winners. This award marks a proud milestone in the hospice’s ongoing commitment to serve the South Devon community with expertise, compassion, and dignity. It also celebrates the collective efforts of the entire Rowcroft team – including staff, volunteers, trustees and supporters – who all play a vital role in providing exceptional care to people living with life-limiting illnesses.
Looking ahead with thanks
Rowcroft would like to thank Torbay Weekly for hosting a fantastic evening and for shining a light on individuals and organisations making a real difference.
Winning these awards is a proud recognition of what Rowcroft has achieved so far, but also a reminder of the vital role the community plays in supporting compassionate end-of-life care.
Rowcroft remains incredibly grateful to everyone who contributes. Together, the hospice and our community can continue making a meaningful difference to the lives of people facing life-limiting illnesses.
If you would like to get involved in supporting your local hospice, find out more about how you can get involved.