The Charity Commission has instigated a statutory inquiry into transgender youth support charity Mermaids. The regulatory body began investigating Mermaids in September, after reports about the supply of chest-binding devices to teenagers.
A formal inquiry has now been launched because of ‘newly identified issues’ with Mermaids’ governance and management, the Commission says. Mermaids offers support around gender and identity to children and young people up to age 25.
The inquiry will examine: firstly, the governance and management of the charity by the trustees, including its leadership and culture; secondly, whether the trustees have complied with their duties and responsibilities under charity law; and finally, whether there has been any misconduct and/ or mismanagement by the trustees.
