Following national press articles regarding the “consolidation of charitable funds with Trust funds” Southampton Hospital Charity would like to reassure supporters of the security and independence of its funds.
In simple terms, the “consolidation of charitable funds with Trust funds” would be a paper exercise to conform to new accounting legislation. The balance sheet figures of the Charity would be shown in the University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust accounts for year-end reporting. No other changes would take place. The Charity would report its own accounting figures to the Charity Commission in the usual manner, and remain a separate entity from the Trust.
Southampton Hospital Charity would like to reassure its supporters that consolidation does not mean that charitable funds are to be given over to the Trust. The Charity Commission have been very specific on this point, and control of charitable funds shall remain independent from those of the Trust.
Supporters are advised that the decision to “consolidate” has been officially postponed for a further year by the government, pending further consideration.
Should supporters have any queries, they are encouraged to contact Ian Bradbury, Charity Funds Manager, Southampton Hospital Charity on 023 8079 8881. More information can also be found at
www.charity-commission.gov.uk| .
Posted on Wednesday 3 March 2010