What Caused Captain Tom's Charity to Lose £100,000 in Assets This Year?

Captain Sir Tom Moore's charity, now known as the 1189808 Foundation, has reported a significant drop in assets, revealing a decline of over £100,000 since last year. This decline highlights ongoing issues regarding management and accountability within the foundation, particularly involving Captain Tom's family. Following scrutiny from the Charity Commission, the foundation's financial health and governance have come under intense examination.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The 1189808 Foundation's assets have dropped from £262,683 in 2023 to £131,110.
• Captain Tom's family faced criticism for alleged mismanagement, leading to disqualifications from trustee roles.
• The foundation has ceased taking donations amid concerns over ethical governance.
• Calls have been made for the family to return funds to ensure they are used for charitable purposes.
• The charity has removed Captain Tom's name from its title at the family's request.

Background of the Foundation

The 1189808 Foundation was established to continue the charitable legacy of Captain Sir Tom Moore, who garnered national admiration for his fundraising efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The World War Two veteran raised an astounding £33 million for the NHS by walking laps in his garden, achieving this remarkable feat on his 100th birthday in April 2020. Following his death in February 2021, his family sought to maintain the momentum of the fundraising efforts in his memory.

Recent Financial Decline

Recent filings indicate that the 1189808 Foundation's assets have plummeted significantly. As of the latest report, the charity's assets stand at £131,110, a stark contrast to the £262,683 reported in the previous year. This decline raises questions about the foundation's financial management and operational efficacy.

Impact of the Charity Commission's Investigation

In November 2022, the Charity Commission, which oversees non-profit organisations in England and Wales, conducted an investigation into the foundation's practices. The inquiry identified "repeated failures" in governance by the Ingram-Moores, Captain Tom's family. The Commission's report highlighted that the family had gained "significant personal benefit" from the charity's operations, leading to their eventual disqualification from serving as trustees.

Response from the Ingram-Moores

In response to the findings, Hannah Ingram-Moore and her husband, Colin, described the investigation as "unjust and excessive." They have consistently maintained that they did not financially benefit from the donations made to the foundation. Their insistence on transparency comes amidst growing scrutiny over how funds intended for charitable causes have been managed.

Current Status of the Foundation

Following the upheaval, the charity's operations have been severely impacted. The foundation's income, which once reached £1.10 million, has dwindled, with the charity ceasing to accept further donations in the summer of 2023. A former trustee has urged the Ingram-Moores to return any funds owed, emphasising the need for these resources to be redirected to deserving charitable initiatives.

Future of the Foundation

The future of the 1189808 Foundation remains uncertain. A lawyer representing the Ingram-Moores hinted at the possibility of the charity shutting down completely. As the remaining trustee works with the Charity Commission to determine the charity's future, the foundation's ability to carry on Captain Tom's legacy appears precarious.

The Significance of Captain Tom’s Legacy

Captain Sir Tom Moore's fundraising achievements resonated deeply with the British public, symbolising hope and resilience during a challenging period. His legacy was not merely about the funds raised but also about the sense of community and inspiration he fostered. The ongoing issues surrounding the foundation's management could potentially tarnish this legacy unless resolved satisfactorily.

What Happens Next?

As the Charity Commission continues to engage with the remaining trustee, the outcome of this situation will be closely watched. There are calls for increased accountability and transparency in the management of charitable funds, particularly those linked to high-profile figures. The foundation's ability to recover and continue its charitable activities hinges on how these matters are addressed.

Conclusion

The 1189808 Foundation faces significant challenges as it navigates the repercussions of financial mismanagement and governance failures attributed to Captain Tom's family. Restoring public trust and ensuring the foundation's future will require a concerted effort to uphold the values that Captain Tom embodied. As discussions about the foundation's direction continue, the legacy of Captain Tom Moore hangs in the balance.

FAQs

Why has the charity changed its name?

The charity changed its name following a request from Captain Tom Moore's family to remove his name from the title, amidst ongoing scrutiny and governance issues.

What financial issues is the 1189808 Foundation facing?

The foundation reported a decline in assets from £262,683 to £131,110 in one year, alongside a significant drop in annual income, raising concerns about its financial management.

What did the Charity Commission find?

The Charity Commission identified repeated governance failures by the Ingram-Moores, who were disqualified from being charity trustees due to significant personal benefits gained from the foundation.

What is the future of the 1189808 Foundation?

The future of the foundation remains uncertain as it has ceased taking donations and may potentially shut down, pending ongoing discussions with the Charity Commission.

How did Captain Tom Moore become famous?

Captain Tom became famous for raising over £33 million for the NHS by walking laps of his garden on his 100th birthday during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a symbol of hope for many.

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