Whistleblowing reports to the Charity Commission with concerns about the running of a charity have increased by 16% over the last year.

According to latest figures from the regulator it received 327 reports in the 2022/23, compared to 281 in 2021/22.

This is the second highest annual number of reports over the last eight years, with the largest in 2020/21 when 431 reports were received. The regulator says reports were so high that year due to “the uncertainties and financial challenges associated with the Covid-19 pandemic”.

As with last year the main issues flagged up are around governance, safeguarding and financial management.

Most disclosures are from employees and former members of staff. Over 2022/23, 123 reports were from an employee and 58 from a former employee. The figures also show 60 reports were from volunteers and 38 from trustees.

Education and training charities received the greatest number of reports, while armed forces charities and those supporting animal welfare received the least.

The regulator opened a case in 291 out of the 327 reports received. The remaining incidents reports related to a case which was already opened into the charity concerned.

The Charity Commission works with the charity Protect to run a confidential advice line for whistleblowers and offers to speak directly to callers about their concerns.

“Whistleblowing disclosures are an important part of how the Commission can uncover wrongdoing and harm in charities,” said the regulator.

“Our policy of offering to speak directly with each whistleblower on receipt of their disclosure is a key part of our assessment function and this approach allows us to better identify and investigate wrong-doing and potential misconduct and mismanagement in the administration of charities.”

Trustees’ knowledge quiz launches

Meanwhile, the Charity Commission has launched a quiz for trustees to test their knowledge and understanding of the role's duties and responsibilities.

“We encourage all trustees to take our new quiz – it’s quick and designed to be fun, but it will also help you assess your own knowledge and take action to address any areas in which you might need more support or learning,” said the regulator’s communications and policy director Paul Latham.

Share Story: