We have a number of questions for Lincolnshire Council, some of their employees, and a Councillor who’s a former Mayor. But for now, we’re interested in one particular set of questions.
Recently, Westies & Besties published a podcast on its YouTube channel entitled ‘How Pumpkin’s Biggest Update Is Changing Everything!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7wCNwBZc0I
We have previously raised questions about the due diligence undertaken by Westies and Besties in coverage of Pumpkin and Friends Charity, so we will not revisit those concerns here. However, one particular statement attributed to CEO Tammie Fox caught our attention.
Discussing the charity’s proposed Retreat and Respite Centre, Tammie Fox stated “About five estate agents on the lookout and also the Lincolnshire Council as well are also on the lookout for us.”
We intend to examine in great detail the proposed Retreat and Respite Centre separately. For now, our questions concern the reference to Lincolnshire Council.
WHAT EXACTLY IS THE COUNCIL DOING?
We recognise that local authorities may legitimately assist charities and community organisations in identifying suitable premises. But, if a council is actively helping one particular charity find a property, we believe the public is entitled to understand the nature of that assistance.
We would therefore welcome clarification on the following:
- Has that authority agreed to identify or search for properties specifically on behalf of Pumpkin and Friends Charity?
- If so, is this routine advice, an established support service or a more formal arrangement?
- Are equivalent services available to other charities and community organisations, and what criteria determine eligibility?
- Have any council staff, councillors or public resources been involved in assisting the charity’s property search?
WHAT ABOUT POLITICAL CONNECTIONS?
We are also aware of reports that a former mayor, now serving as an independent councillor, is a public supporter of Pumpkin and Friends Charity and that his wife works in its charity shop. We have not established that either individual has had any involvement in the proposed property search.
Nevertheless, if any councillor has participated in discussions or decisions concerning council assistance to the charity, it would be reasonable to ask whether any relevant interests were considered and, where required, declared.
Supporting a charity is not wrongdoing. Nor does a personal connection automatically establish a conflict of interest.
Transparency is the issue.
*Public resources should be administered fairly, transparently and in accordance with the relevant rules.*