Suspended London pride CEO Ordered to Surrender Bank Accounts Amid Examination
The former director and suspended CEO of London Pride, Christopher Joell-Deshields, has been ordered to hand over his bank account details as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of financial misconduct and bullying. The move comes after claims surfaced regarding the misuse of over £7,000 in sponsor-donated vouchers and a reportedly “toxic” work environment within the organization.
The London LGBTQ+ Community Consortium (LLCP), which organizes Pride in London, initiated the investigation following reports in The Guardian detailing accusations of inappropriate spending on luxury items like perfumes and Apple products, alongside allegations of bullying towards a disabled volunteer. The situation presents a challenge for Pride organizations nationwide, which are already facing difficulties in securing financial support.
joell-Deshields was removed as director and suspended as CEO earlier this month. Investigators, acting on behalf of the LLCP board, are examining the claims.Volunteers previously expressed concerns to the BBC that the dispute could erode public trust in Pride organizations.
According to the LLCP, ”The board of directors is taking action to investigate the underlying allegations raised.We are not in a position to comment while these investigations are taking place, save to say that we take such allegations extremely seriously, and remain committed to upholding a safe, open and inclusive organisation that is compliant with it’s legal and governance obligations.”
Joell-Deshields previously stated to The Guardian: “The current legal and governance matters relate to the organisation itself. These matters are being addressed through the appropriate channels, and it would be inappropriate to litigate them in the press. Nothing in this statement should be interpreted as an admission of any allegation, nor does it comment on any other individual.”
The LLCP has four paid staff and relies on over 100 year-round volunteers. The investigation is ongoing, and the BBC has contacted Mr. Joell-Deshields for further comment.
