Charity Commission Opens Compliance Case Into Wootton Bridge Community Association

The Charity Commission has opened a compliance case into the Wootton Bridge Community Association (WBCA) following concerns over alleged “political activity” at the community centre.

WBCA, which leases the Wootton Bridge Community Centre from the Isle of Wight Council, is now under assessment by the regulator after several complaints were raised.

It follows reports that controversial commentator Katie Hopkins is scheduled to appear at the venue on 23 May next year as part of her ‘Free Range’ stand-up tour.

The centre has also displayed Union Jack and St George’s flags alongside promotional material for The Patriot Club IOW.

Last month, the charity faced criticism from Independent Socialist councillor Geoff Brodie after hosting Advance UK leader Ben Habib, formerly co-deputy leader of Reform UK.

A spokesperson for the Charity Commission said it is “assessing concerns” to determine whether there is a regulatory role for the body and what “next steps” may be required.

While charities are permitted to engage in some political activity, the Commission’s guidance states it must only support the organisation’s charitable aims and cannot be the charity’s sole focus.

WBCA’s own charitable objectives state its purpose is to promote the benefit of Wootton Bridge residents “without distinction of sex or of political, religious or other opinions.”

Commenting on the situation, Isle of Wight East MP Joe Robertson said:

“It is important that charities adhere to all relevant laws and regulations however big or small they are.

"Now that the Charity Commission has said it has opened a compliance case… it should do so as swiftly as possible and then publish its findings.”

Local councillor Sarah Redrup (Liberal Democrat) added:

“The Charity Commission’s involvement helps ensure charities are supported in meeting their duties, including around political neutrality.

"It’s normal for venues to be hired for a variety of events, including political ones, so long as the charity itself remains impartial.”

Wootton Bridge Community Association has so far not responded to a request for comment.