A Scottish charity set up to alleviate poverty has increased the number of grants it makes after facing criticism over a lack of charitable activity.
Dr Bruce Fund, set up more than 200 years ago to help those in poverty in Musselburgh, has faced criticism recently from Audit Scotland for failing to operate in the way it should.
Auditors warned East Lothian Council, which oversees the charity, for failing to promote its work effectively.
Despite holding around £20,000 of funds, Dr Bruce Fund’s charitable spending had comprised grants to two individuals totalling less than £100 for at least seven years including the 12 months to March 2023.
But the charity increased this to £1,465 in 2023-24 after trustees made efforts to improve its grantmaking process, according to its latest accounts.
Grants increased
In the year to March 2024, Dr Bruce Fund increased the extent of funds made available for grants.
For 2023-24, a total of £1,465 was awarded, constituting £40 awarded to seven individuals and an award of £1,185 to an individual to assist with flood damage restoration.
This compares to grants of £80 in 2022-23 (two awards of £40).
Dr Bruce Fund incurred operational expenditure, including grant awards, of £2,611, against income (excluding investment sales and gains) of £1,596.
Together with gains related to investment assets of £950, this resulted in a deficit for the year of £65.
At 31 March 2024, the trust had unrestricted funds of £20,246.
Its most recent annual report states: “The trustees have worked to improve the process for awarding grants to enable the trust to fulfil its intended objectives which has increased the grant awards made.
“The trust intends to continue to make annual awards as funds allow.”
Councillors for Musselburgh have acted in a decision-making capacity for the trust for some years, with trustees supported by finance and support staff within the council.
Dr Bruce Fund has no employees and all financial transactions are carried out through the bank accounts of the council.
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