The Charity Commission for England and Wales has confirmed the closure of the substantive investigatory phase of its statutory inquiry into Devon Freewheelers (Charity Number 1180264).
This is a major and positive step forward! The Commission issued its final report on July 4, 2024. Crucially, the Charity Commission is now satisfied that the current trustees have taken reasonable steps to address the regulatory issues identified, specifically concerning unauthorised payments to connected parties. As a direct result, the Payment Restriction Order was officially discharged on July 4, 2024!
Focus on Improved Governance and Financial Control
Under the new management and leadership, the charity is committed to maintaining the highest standards. The Commission’s advice emphasizes this commitment to best practice:
- Robust Financial Processes: Following guidance on internal financial controls.
- Transparent Decision-Making: Clearly recording all trustee decisions in the meeting minutes.
- Safeguarding Funds: Ensuring all the charity’s funds are safeguarded.
This swift action and cooperation confirm the new leadership’s dedication to improved financial processes and accountability.
Moving Forward: Relief and Renewed Focus
For the dedicated staff and volunteers, this outcome brings immense relief. Following a complete change of management, the team was left to navigate an extremely traumatic and challenging situation. They have worked tirelessly to cooperate with the inquiry and implement the necessary changes. Now, with the investigation cleared, the whole team is happy and relieved to finally be able to move on.
Their full focus is now back on their core mission: providing vital, free out-of-hours transport of blood, medical samples, donor milk, and essential supplies to the NHS across Devon, 365 days a year.
Thank you for your continued support as we look ahead!