Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a bowl, combine chopped dates and boiling water; stir in baking soda.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to soften the dates.
In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
Gradually fold in the flour and date mixture until just combined.
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
For the sauce, heat dark brown sugar and cream in a pan until melted and smooth.
Serve the pudding warm, drizzled with toffee sauce.