Resignation Shakes BBC’s Children in Need Over Controversial Grants

In a significant turn of events, Rosie Millard has stepped down as chair of the BBC’s Children in Need charity amid controversy surrounding grants awarded to LGBT Youth Scotland (LGBTYS). This decision follows her concerns regarding the charity’s past leadership, specifically ties to a former chief convicted of serious child abuse offenses.

Allegations of Institutional Failure

Millard’s resignation letter, which was shared with The Times, highlighted her belief that the charity exhibited an institutional failure in its handling of funding to LGBTYS. She raised objections to a £466,000 grant awarded to the organization, which supports young LGBTQ+ individuals. Her concerns stemmed from the association with James Rennie, who led LGBT Youth Scotland until 2008 and was convicted in 2009 for sexually assaulting children.

Millard criticized the charity for a perceived lack of due diligence and claimed that chief executive Simon Antrobus did not respond adequately to her warnings about the situation.

In response to mounting allegations, Children in Need suspended funding to LGBTYS in May 2024 after Millard alerted them about Rennie’s past. Following an extensive three-month review, the board ultimately withdrew support for the charity.

Ongoing Concerns and Investigations

The situation surrounding LGBTYS has continued to unfold. In recent months, another individual connected with the organization was convicted for sharing indecent images of children. Andrew Easton, who contributed to guidance materials for LGBTYS but was never employed by them, pleaded guilty in September 2023 and received a community order along with other penalties.

Millard’s departure has prompted Children in Need’s board to initiate a review aimed at improving oversight and communication between board members and executive leadership. Despite this turmoil, a BBC spokesperson stated that the trustees fully support Antrobus and the decisions made during this period.

Mhairi Crawford, chief executive of LGBTYS, defended her organization against what she described as ideologically driven attacks stemming from Millard’s actions.

She noted that investigations conducted by Children in Need found no issues regarding their operations.

As this situation continues to develop, it raises broader questions about accountability and transparency within charities supporting vulnerable youth. The implications of Millard’s resignation could resonate beyond children’s charities, prompting a reevaluation of grant procedures across similar organizations.