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.
