Blog. Spotlight on: Dorchester Collection

Soaring living costs, rising debt, and precarious employment have created a perfect storm for thousands of hospitality workers, many of whom are facing serious financial and mental health challenges. Without any government funding, our ability to help depends entirely on the generosity of the industry we serve. We’re especially grateful to Dorchester Collection, which recently donated an extremely generous £25,000. We spoke with Christopher Cowdray, President of Dorchester Collection, to find out more.

Tell us a little about Dorchester Collection’s charitable endeavours.

A legacy of care is what defines us. We recognise the impact we make on society, the economy and the planet, and aim to make a positive difference in the places we operate. Our hotels have long been at the forefront of their local communities and participate in numerous charitable efforts as part of our ‘We Care’ philosophy. Examples include the partnership between The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane with Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice, which provides expert and compassionate palliative care for over 350 children, who have a life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families. In addition, Coworth Park partners with the Ascot Day Centre, a charity providing a home-like environment for the elderly in Sunninghill, Ascot, and Sunningdale, offering social opportunities in a safe space.

Are there particular aspects of Hospitality Action’s work that resonate with your team?

Hospitality Action’s range of support services to help hospitality people back on their feet again after a setback is so commendable. The fact that they are there to help thousands of people when life takes an unexpected turn is a value that is close to the heart of our company and those who work within it.

How does supporting Hospitality Action align with Dorchester Collection’s values and goals?

Hospitality Action has a strong heritage supporting the hospitality sector, and it’s been well-placed to quickly mobilise in response to the shocks it has endured in the past five years.  At Dorchester Collection we try to be agile and respond quickly to the many challenges we as a company and our employees all face: from looking after every one of our employees during Covid and paying them fully, to supporting the less fortunate in the communities we serve.

Driven by purpose, we both recognise that it’s hotel employees who ensure that guests return again and again. Our guests want to be understood, and our staff know when to tune in and how to read between the lines. To know when to lean in and when to disappear. They are our connectors, and they do it quietly and expertly. Both Dorchester Collection and Hospitality Action pay tribute to these extraordinary heroes.

What advice would you offer to other hospitality brands looking to start or strengthen their philanthropic efforts?

Make the first step, even if it’s a small one. We can all make a social impact. Brands need to inspire action, and emotion remains the ultimate fuel. We can only do that through our people who help transform hospitality experiences into the unforgettable. Supporting our people is essential and at Dorchester Collection we are delighted to contribute to Hospitality Action’s dedication to leading the way in financial, practical and emotional support.

What kind of legacy do you hope your contribution will leave on those Hospitality Action supports?

We want to be a passionate ambassador for Hospitality Action and to raise awareness across the industry about the vital work they do. It’s all about making a difference and Hospitality Action does it so well.