Statement from our Chair of Trustees, Kathryn Downs 

We are relieved that the Charity Commission Inquiry which began nearly two years ago is finally over. The report states, as we anticipated, that there is no finding of misconduct at Mermaids. 

The Commission has also confirmed, as we have repeatedly asserted, that we have not provided medical advice or acted improperly in our work with children, young people and their families.   

We want to thank all our staff, volunteers and generous supporters who have ensured we have continued to provide high quality support and advocacy to trans young people, maintaining our vital helpline service, introducing new local groups and launching our new youth advocacy programme, MANGO.  

We can now look forward and concentrate all our efforts and energies on providing high-quality support and empowering advocacy for trans children and young people and the important people in their lives. 

The Trustees accepted that governance did not keep pace with the charity’s rapid growth linked to rising support needs from trans young people and their families. These historic governance issues were addressed through the implementation of the recommendations of two independent reviews, proactively commissioned by our Trustees, into EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) and Governance. The Board also strengthened due diligence processes for Trustee recruitment.  

Considering the changes already made at Mermaids independently of this Inquiry, the time taken to publish this report has been frustrating, significantly affecting Mermaids’ fundraising and ability to deliver on our charitable objectives. We call on the Charity Commission to ensure that organisations serving groups facing rising hostility are supported and protected, whilst being held to account where this is necessary. 

As Mermaids approaches its 30th birthday, we remain determined to deliver on our 2024-27 Strategy and expand our efforts to create a safe, inclusive society where trans children and young people are empowered to live their best lives, at a time where our communities need the support Mermaids delivers more than ever.