Where to start. Firstly, what an incredible feat of fundraising that galvanised a nation to give in times of extreme fear and uncertainty. And secondly, what a gut-punch to that legacy.
The sad story of the Captain Tom Foundation and how family members personally benefited from their connections with it (see opposite), will likely undermine trust in fundraising and probably charity more broadly. A selection of recent headlines brings home how it was perceived and the lasting impact it may have: “The Captain Tom charity scandal is a warning to us all to be careful who you donate to” – Telegraph. “How Captain Tom’s ‘misleading’ daughter hoodwinked Britain” – The Sun. “The hypocrisy of Captain Tom’s daughter exposed in damning report: Watchdog finds Hannah Ingram Moore and her husband ‘misled’ public as they pocketed £1.5m” – Daily Mail. Tough reading to be sure.
In response, NCVO’s director of strategic communications and insight, Saskia Konynenburg, said: “We know this news could dent public confidence in giving, but it shouldn’t. This case doesn’t reflect the hard work of thousands of charities that abide by the principles of ethical decision-making, champion integrity and openness while also transforming millions of lives every day. The circumstances of this case are unique.”
In a statement, ACEVO said the case “underscores the crucial role of robust and effective regulation in maintaining the health and integrity of our sector. The trust that individuals and organisations place in charities must be protected, and it is essential that regulators take proportionate action”.
So, what lessons can be learned? For one thing, trustees have to be serious about their responsibilities. And they need to be made aware of that from the very point of application. It’s not a trophy or badge of honour; it’s a critical role that can entirely decide a charity’s (and its beneficiaries’) future. Whether the foundation should have ever been allowed to be run by a family who had limited charity experience is another question. Perhaps the legal framework for new charity registrations is not “robust and effective” enough.
And, as Konynenburg says, it will dent public confidence. The sector knows the majority of those who work in it operate at the highest ethical standards, but the public doesn’t necessarily. As if fundraising in the current climate wasn’t already tough enough! All fundraisers can do is prepare for the questions from donors and the public and construct a robust response. And above all else, look after yourselves. It’s tough when things like this happen and it will reflect on the sector, but it doesn’t reflect on you and the crucial work you do day in, day out.
@stevejcotterill is the editor of Fundraising Magazine
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