Pride in London chief suspended amid probe into alleged misuse of sponsor vouchers and bullying
Internal investigation examines claims that vouchers were spent on luxury fragrances and electronics and that a 'toxic' culture existed, current and former volunteers say.
Pride in London has suspended its chief executive, Christopher Joell-Deshields, while an internal investigation examines allegations that sponsor-donated vouchers were used to buy luxury fragrances and electronics and that a bullying culture existed within the organisation.
The BBC reported the suspension, citing current and former volunteer directors and others connected to the charity. The allegations, first reported by the Guardian, centre on the alleged misuse of donations, including vouchers used to purchase luxury perfumes and items such as Apple speakers and headphones. The BBC said some volunteers have described a toxic culture and alleged bullying at the organisation.
Joell-Deshields, who has served as chief executive since 2021, told the Guardian it would be "inappropriate" to discuss the matter in the press and said he remained in his role. The BBC account of a suspension and Joell-Deshields's statement that he remained in post reflect differing public reports as the investigation proceeds.
Pride in London runs one of Europe's largest pride events and relies on a combination of sponsors, donors and volunteers to operate year-round. The organisation has more than 100 year-round volunteers and four paid staff members, according to people familiar with its operations cited by the BBC. Current and former volunteers who spoke to the broadcaster expressed concern that the allegations could damage the reputation and running of the event at a time volunteers described as "precarious" for pride organisations across the UK.
The internal inquiry is understood to have been launched after complaints from volunteer directors and others involved with the charity. Details about the scope and timetable of the inquiry have not been disclosed publicly. The unfolding situation comes as many community organisations balance fundraising pressures, sponsor relationships and volunteer capacity when staging major public events.
The BBC and the Guardian first reported the allegations and the suspension; both outlets spoke to people involved with Pride in London and to Joell-Deshields. The organisation's governing body and its processes for handling complaints and financial oversight were not detailed in the initial reports. The investigation's findings and any subsequent decisions by Pride in London are expected to determine staffing and governance actions in the weeks ahead.