November 21st 2024.
Hannah and Colin Ingram-Moore, the daughter and son-in-law of the late Captain Sir Tom Moore, have been found to have made "repeated failings" during their time at a charity set up in his name. A recent report by the Charity Commission uncovered that the family had gained "significant personal benefit" from their involvement in the foundation.
The commission's investigation, which spanned over two years, revealed a number of concerning findings. These included the Ingram-Moores' failure to separate their personal interests from the charity, as well as their use of the charity's name for private gain. As a result, the couple was disqualified from serving as charity trustees in July.
According to the commission's CEO, David Holdsworth, the couple's actions blurred the lines between their personal and charitable interests, resulting in them receiving significant personal benefits. This included a £1.4 million book advance and an £18,000 appearance fee for an awards ceremony, both of which had unclear links to the Captain Tom Foundation.
One of the key findings of the report was the lack of transparency surrounding the sales of Captain Tom's autobiography, "Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day". Despite statements being made that implied donations from book sales would go to the charity, the commission discovered that the family's company, Club Nook, had been paid a £1.5 million advance for the publishing deal. However, the charity has yet to receive any money from this agreement.
The report also highlighted the Ingram-Moores' use of the charity's name for personal benefit, including Mrs. Ingram-Moore retaining £18,000 for judging and presenting an award named after her father. The commission found no evidence to support her claim that she had undertaken the engagement in a personal capacity. Additionally, the couple offered the charity intellectual property without appropriate agreements, leading to confusion and possible financial losses.
The couple also faced criticism for using the charity's name in a planning application for a building on their private land. Despite the building being demolished by order of the local authority, the inquiry found that the Ingram-Moores had used the charity's name for their own benefit, which amounted to misconduct and/or mismanagement.
The Captain Tom Foundation was set up to spread the generosity and kindness shown by the Second World War veteran among various good causes. Captain Tom famously raised £38.9 million for NHS Charities Together by walking 100 laps of his garden for his 100th birthday during the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020. However, the foundation's fundraisers, including the recent "Captain Tom 100" challenge, have come under scrutiny due to the commission's investigation.
In response to the report, Mr. Holdsworth stated that charities are expected to make a clear distinction between their personal interests and those of the causes they support. He also emphasized the importance of holding individuals accountable for any misuse of trust in charities.
The Ingram-Moores have previously expressed their disagreement with the disqualification and described the investigation as a "harrowing and debilitating ordeal". However, they have also acknowledged their naivety in the matter and stated that the foundation was set up by independent trustees, not by the family.
The foundation has since closed all payment channels while the statutory inquiry remains open, and its website states that it is not actively seeking any funding from donors. The couple's legal team has also indicated that the charity will close once the inquiry has concluded.
In conclusion, the report by the Charity Commission has brought to light the failings of the Ingram-Moores in their roles at the Captain Tom Foundation. Their actions have not only misled the public but also resulted in personal gain at the expense of the charity. It is a reminder that charities must always prioritize their cause above personal interests.
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