The Whitehouse Leisure fundraising campaign in support of Rays of Sunshine not only succeeded in generating vital revenue for the Bacta charity it also put the industry front and centre stage involving the amusements eco-system of manufacturer, supplier, operator and end-user.
“A wonderful initiative that demonstrates both the compassion and the creativity that sits at the heart of our industry” is how Bacta Charitable Trust Chairman John Bollom described Whitehouse Leisure’s magnificent £43,000 fundraising programme conducted in support of the Rays of Sunshine Children’s Charity (RoS).
The programme which saw Whitehouse donate 50p for every item sold from its hugely popular Capybara toy range, took the total raised by the company for RoS to well in excess of £50,000.
Speaking at a presentation made to Whitehouse Leisure Managing Director Phil Setter, and attended by current Bacta President Joseph Cullis, former President James Miller and Rhea Dickman, Senior Major Gifts and Partnerships Executive at Rays of Sunshine, Bollom paid tribute to the partnership between Whitehouse Leisure, the industry and RoS. He confirmed: “The Bacta Charitable Trust was established in 1991 under the leadership of Sonia Meaden OBE. Since then and thanks to the unstinting support of Bacta members, such as Whitehouse Leisure, the Trust has succeeded in supporting a wide range of charities.
“Our relationship with Rays of Sunshine is close to the heart of many Bacta members with the monies raised assisting the organisation to reach out to many thousands of seriously ill children and their families helping them to reduce isolation, improve self-esteem and create precious memories.”
He noted: “The charity sector has been hard hit by the cost-of-living crisis and it’s more important than ever that we continue to generate the funds which enable organisations such as Rays of Sunshine to continue their invaluable work.
“What is particularly noteworthy about the campaign created by Phil and the team at Whitehouse Leisure is that it involves the industry supply chain, with contributions made by manufacturers, suppliers, operators and of course consumers who can see the positive contribution arising from their purchase. It is a great fundraising model that places our industry front and centre stage: Phil and the entire team at Whitehouse are to be warmly congratulated for all of their outstanding work helping families who are facing extremely difficult and trying times.”
Reflecting on the support Rhea Dickman said: “We were absolutely delighted to receive this generous donation and are so grateful to Whitehouse Leisure for their incredible support. Partnerships like this are hugely valued by Rays of Sunshine, as they demonstrate the power of the industry coming together to make a meaningful difference for seriously ill children and their families.”
“The Whitehouse Leisure Capybara initiative truly captured the imagination. Its sense of fun, creativity and community spirit perfectly reflects the joy and positivity that sit at the heart of Rays of Sunshine. Thanks to everyone who supported the campaign, the funds raised will help us continue granting magical wishes across the UK, creating precious moments of happiness and lasting memories for families during the most challenging times.”
Originally published on Coinslot on March 2, 2026. Republished with permission.