Political Campaigning And Social Media Activity: The Commission's Decision On Humanity Torbay And Elections Bill 2021 In The UK

• Published date: 25 April 2022
• Subject Matter: orporate/Commercial Law, Charities & Non-Profits
• Law Firm: Withers LLP
• Author: Ms Hannah Brearley

Commission inquiry into Humanity Torbay

On 25 March, the Charity Commission released its inquiry decision relating to Humanity Torbay, a charitable incorporated organisation ('CIO') that managed a community drop-in centre providing information and advice on health, wellbeing, housing, employment, and referrals to local food banks.

The investigation centred around the political nature of some of the organisation's media content (in particular, Facebook posts made by the CIO's founder and CEO) which criticised the current UK government.

The Commission has guidance about political campaigning and activity, and advises that trustees should ensure that when senior staff speak publicly on behalf of the charity that those statements further the charity's objects (and that when senior staff publicly express their own personal political views, it should be very clear that those views were not the views of the charity).

There were additional concerns regarding the management of the CIO's resources and whether the trustees had general complied with their duties and responsibilities.

The Commission issued...