Charities must get back to doing good works

by Libby Purves

Corrupted by government, over politicised and over professionalised, the voluntary sector needs to rethink its role

In even a minor public and journalistic life, you encounter a lot of charity people. Sometimes you watch and appreciate their work, sometimes send off a donation or a signed book, get on your hind legs to speak at a conference, read at a carol service or voice a radio appeal. Over a convivial glass you might meet their smartly dressed, crisp-mannered chief executives - once known as mere directors, but now feeling a need to blow up their titles to mimic industry and banking. And like everybody else you get appeals and free Biros in the post, read harrowing adverts and guiltily dodge around chuggers.

So I have had a good view these past few decades of how the sector works. And in this difficult winter, with income and investments falling away, it seems a good time to reflect on what has happened since the 1970s and how much of it is dispensable...........

Article & comments here:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/libby_purves/article5385644.ece

Charity boss stole £53,000 donations... to fund clothes-buying addiction

By Daily Mail Reporter
Last updated at 1:01 PM on 17th March 2009

A charity boss escaped jail today after stealing nearly £53,000 from its funds to finance her addiction to clothes and shoes.

Lynne Greenwood went on numerous shopping sprees with the finances from the charity for adults with mental health and learning difficulties over a 20 month period.

The 57-year-old pleaded guilty to theft but was given a suspended jail sentence term after the judge accepted she suffered from psychological problems and had not spent the money on an extravagant lifestyle.

Greenwood, who is described as an irrational and compulsive purchaser, never wore many of the items she bought during the scheme which occurred while she worked as a service director for Manchester-based Creative Support..........

Complete article, photos & comments:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1162680/Charity-boss-stole-53-000-donations--fund-clothes-buying-addiction.html