UK football anti-racism charity revealed to have 'a number of failings' by watchdog

Kick It Out criticised for 'poor communication' over sexual assault allegation

England players and manager Gareth Southgate speak to referee Ivan Bebek when the Euro 2020 match against Bulgaria was halted due to racist abuse. Reuters/Carl Recine 

The UK's anti-racism football charity has been found to have a series of failings following an investigation by the watchdog.

The Kick It Out charity, which is funded by the Football Association, Premier League, EFL and Professional Footballers’ Association, was criticised for "poor communication" in its handling of an allegation of sexual abuse.

The charity plays an important role in stamping out racism in the game.

Just a day ago it criticised Uefa over its handling of racism suffered by England players in their Euro 2020 clash with Bulgaria.

The UK's Charity Commission had received complaints by former employees about the culture and management at the organisation and launched an investigation a year ago.

On Thursday it published its findings, it said: “The [independent] report identified a number of failings. There was evidence of poor communication and a lack of training in key areas such as governance and staff welfare. Many staff felt they were not managed well by the senior management team, with some feeling overworked and inadequately supported.”

Kick It Out announced the appointment of a new chair, Sanjay Bhandari, in September and has also appointed three new trustees.

Tracey Howarth, the head of regulatory compliance at the Charity Commission, said: “The trustees of Kick It Out should have made protecting those who came into contact with their charity from harm a governance priority.

"The charity did not fully deliver on this expectation, largely due to failures in communication within the charity.

"It is because of the importance of Kick It Out’s work, particularly in the current climate, that the trustees understand that it matters just as much how the charity delivers on its purpose, as what it delivers, so that it can continue to be successful and thrive in the future.”

The charity says it will implement the report's findings by May which will focus on its communications, the support it offers and a review of its activities.