Chijos News brings UK news with a focus on diaspora communities, highlighting stories that affect families, faith groups, and community trust. In a recent regulatory update, the Charity Commission has taken action against the Liverpool Diocesan Board of Finance and the Chelmsford Diocesan Board of Finance after uncovering failures in how safeguarding allegations were handled within these Church of England charities.
The Commission’s definition of safeguarding requires charities to take reasonable steps to protect anyone who comes into contact with them from harm. In both dioceses, trustees failed to follow proper procedures when allegations were made against senior figures, leaving vulnerable adults at risk and breaching trustee duties. The concerns, initially brought to the Commission’s attention in January 2025 through media reports, involved behaviour towards two adults by the then Bishop of Liverpool, who resigned later that month while denying any wrongdoing.
Investigations revealed that in both charities, trustees did not maintain sufficient oversight or ensure that proper processes were followed. Allegations were not escalated to the trustee boards in a timely manner, preventing the boards from fully assessing potential risks or deciding on appropriate actions. This lack of robust systems meant that serious incidents were not reported to the Charity Commission until early 2025, despite the initial allegations emerging in 2023.
The Commission concluded that these failings amounted to mismanagement in the administration of the two charities. As a result, both diocesan boards have received Official Warnings, along with advice on improving policies and procedures. Trustees are now required to ensure that safeguarding responsibilities are clearly understood, that delegated responsibilities are effectively monitored, and that serious incidents are reported promptly to the regulator. Both charities must update the Commission on their progress in implementing these measures.
For diaspora communities in the UK, many of whom rely on local faith organizations for social support, volunteering opportunities, and community cohesion, this case underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in charitable institutions. Safeguarding procedures are essential for maintaining trust and protecting everyone who engages with faith-based charities, especially in situations involving individuals in positions of influence or authority.
David Holdsworth, Chief Executive of the Charity Commission, stated that while churches and cathedrals play a vital role in communities across the country, these cases demonstrate the necessity for trustees to effectively challenge the behaviour of powerful figures. He emphasized that proper reporting mechanisms and ongoing training are crucial for protecting vulnerable people and ensuring trustees can fulfill their collective duties.
These warnings serve as a wider lesson for all charities, particularly faith-based organizations, that robust safeguarding procedures, clear oversight, and continual review are essential to prevent harm, maintain public trust, and uphold the law. Chijos News will continue to provide updates and context for diaspora audiences, helping families stay informed about important developments in UK charity governance.
The charities involved are registered as the Liverpool Diocesan Board of Finance (charity number 249740) and the Chelmsford Diocesan Board of Finance (charity number 249505). More information, including the Commission’s safeguarding guidance and the Official Warnings, is publicly available on the Charity Commission’s website.
