Interim Managers Appointed for Wirral Community Transport Charity as Investigation Unfolds

In June 2026, a statutory inquiry was initiated regarding the charity due to concerns related to governance and financial management. The investigation is looking into allegations that the charity has an insufficient number of trustees, is in violation of its governing document, and has not adhered to statutory accounting requirements. Furthermore, there are concerns regarding expenditures that do not appear to align with the charity’s objectives.

Appointment of Interim Managers

Gareth Harris and James Dowers from RSM have been appointed as interim managers of the charity, superseding the charity’s trustees. Their responsibilities include:

• Safeguarding the charity’s assets while reviewing its financial situation and controls.
• Evaluating its governance and operational structures to determine if modifications are necessary to protect the charity and its beneficiaries.
• Assessing the charity’s long-term sustainability and providing regular reports to the overseeing Commission.

This appointment, which commenced on 12 October 2026, will remain in effect until the Commission decides to amend or lift the order. The inquiry into the charity is still ongoing.

Details on the Charity Commission

The Charity Commission is an independent, non-ministerial government department responsible for the registration and regulation of charities in England and Wales. It aims to be an expert regulator that is equitable, balanced, and impartial, fostering an environment in which charities can flourish. This mission is designed to enhance public trust in charities and enable them to fulfil their vital roles in improving lives and strengthening communities.

Merseycare Transport Services Ltd has been rebranded as Merseycare Community Transport Ltd, retaining its registered charity number (1133408).

Further Information on the Inquiry

Further details regarding the inquiry into Merseycare Transport Services Ltd can be found on the official government website. The inquiry has invoked the Commission’s authority to appoint interim managers in accordance with section 76(3)(g) of the Charities Act 2011, effectively excluding any involvement from the trustees.

For additional information regarding the Charity Commission’s process for appointing interim managers, please refer to the government website.

Merseycare Transport Services Ltd operates as an independent charity and community transport provider based in Wirral and has no corporate affiliation with Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, which operates as a separate NHS healthcare entity.

Press Office Contact Information

For media inquiries, please contact the press office via email at pressenquiries@charitycommission.gov.uk or call the out-of-hours press office contact number at 07785 748787.