Investigation opened into Christian charity’s financial controls
The Charity Commission has opened a statutory inquiry into The Outreach Ministry.
The charity works to advance the Christian faith through ministry and events, predominantly in London.
The Commission opened a regulatory compliance case into The Outreach Ministry in November 2024 after concerns were raised about its financial controls and use of charity funds.
On inspection of the charity’s bank account, the Commission noted several payments referencing the trustees and potentially related parties that cannot be adequately explained. Additionally, there were payments referenced that may not be furthering the charity’s stated purpose.
As a temporary and protective measure, the inquiry has exercised its power to restrict the trustees from certain financial transactions without the Commission’s prior approval.
The inquiry will examine whether the trustees are complying with their legal duties and responsibilities in respect of the administration, governance and management of the Charity, with particular regard to:
- the financial management of the Charity including the extent of any related party transactions and whether there has been any unauthorised personal benefit
- whether the Charity’s funds and assets have been applied in furtherance of its charitable purposes and
- the extent to which any failings or weaknesses identified in the administration of the Charity are a result of misconduct and/or mismanagement by the trustees
The scope of the inquiry may be extended if additional regulatory issues emerge during the Commission’s investigation.
ENDS
Notes to editors
- The Charity Commission is the independent, non-ministerial government department that registers and regulates charities in England and Wales. Its ambition is to be an expert regulator that is fair, balanced, and independent so that charity can thrive. This ambition will help to create and sustain an environment where charities further build public trust and ultimately fulfil their essential role in enhancing lives and strengthening society. Read further information about what the Commission does
- On 3 April 2025, the Charity Commission opened a statutory inquiry into the charity under section 46 of the Charities Act 2011(‘the Act’) as a result of its regulatory concerns that there is or has been misconduct and/ or mismanagement in the administration of the charity.
- A statutory inquiry is a legal power enabling the Commission to formally investigate matters of regulatory concern within a charity and to use protective powers for the benefit of the charity and its beneficiaries, assets, or reputation.
- An inquiry will investigate and establish the facts of the case so that the Commission can determine the extent of any misconduct and/or mismanagement; the extent of the risk to the charity, its work, property, beneficiaries, employees or volunteers; and decide what action is needed to resolve the concerns.
- The Commission has made a temporary and protective order under s.76(3)(f) of the Charities Act, which gives the Commission power to restrict certain transactions that the trustees can enter into. This is a temporary and protective measure.
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