The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Commitee (DCMS Committee) is set to question the Charity Commission's chair, Baroness Stowell over the regulator's record since her appointment.

The committee has asked Baroness Stowell, alongside the regulator's CEO, Helen Stephenson to give evidence following high-profile investigations, including that of Save the Children.

It has also invited charities and members of the public with relevant expertise to submit evidence prior to the hearing.

A number of safeguarding scandals in recent months have highlighted the regulator's role within the sector. Last month, the regulator came under fire after it acknowledged it had failed to follow up on complaints made about the Alzheimer's Society, which resulted in a high-profile media scandal.

It will be the first time Baroness Stowell has given evidence to the DCMS Committee since the predecessor committee opposed her appointment in 2018.

The committee expressed concern about her experience in the charity sector and her ability to be politically neutral, as well as her performance at the hearing. They also identified a lack of transparency in the appointment process.

The government proceeded to appoint Baroness Stowell, its preferred candidate, despite the committee’s position.

Charities, members of the public and other organisations have now been invited to submit relevant evidence about the Charity Commission under Stowell's leadership by 5pm Thursday 12 March. It said it will continue to accept submissions until 5pm on Tuesday 31 March.

Fir more details on submissions, click here.

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