The Macbeth Memorial Trust trustees have received an Official Warning from the Charity Commission for failing to submit the charity’s annual returns.
The charity was founded in 2016 and functions as a grant-making organization.
When the Commission believes there has been a violation of trust or duty, or other misconduct and mismanagement in a charity, it has statutory authority to issue an Official Warning.
In this scenario, the charity’s annual returns for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2018, 2019, and 2020 are still outstanding.
Despite the regulator’s persistent engagement, the trustees displayed a clear unwillingness to cooperate and comply with the filing regulations.
If a charity fails to file accounts, it will appear on the register of charities as being in default.
The Commission has stated unequivocally that it will take severe action against charities who continue to fail to file.
This involves issuing Official Warnings and, if necessary, escalating to statutory investigation.
Tracy Howarth, Casework Assistant Director, stated:
“The trustees of the Macbeth Memorial Trust have shown a blatant disregard for their legal duties and responsibilities.
It is vital that charities are transparent about their activities and spending. Submitting annual reports to us is a crucial tool for holding charities to account.”
Charities with an annual income of more than £10,000 in England or Wales are required to file an annual return with the Charity Commission.