A senior figure is departing from the boardroom to compete in a charity culinary event.

Alison Donaldson, who acts as regional managing director for Barchester’s North West and Midlands territories, will represent the company at the Barchester Charitable Foundation Cook Off 2026.

She will face fellow managing directors and other senior leaders in a competition intended to raise awareness and funds for the foundation, which delivers aid to disabled people and those navigating difficult life situations via community grant schemes.

Donaldson remarked that she finds cooking genuinely pleasurable and possesses a strong competitive nature, which prompted her instant acceptance of the invitation to battle alongside fellow managing directors. She added that the foundation champions a worthwhile cause and that it is gratifying to know their involvement will help many people enjoy a better standard of living.

The foundation allocated £424,000 throughout 2025, with that sum distributed across 262 groups, charitable organisations and 123 individual beneficiaries.

Tyisa Houghton, responsible for running Hempton Field care home, said the team felt extremely proud that Donaldson had chosen to enter this contest, and they were certain she would demonstrate complete dedication. She noted that the foundation held significant importance for all members of their community, and this culinary contest would secure vital financial support for many individuals. She confirmed their full backing of Donaldson and expressed optimism that managing directors would succeed.