Charity Commission to investigate safeguarding concerns at RNIB centre

The Charity Commission is investigating concerns about safeguarding at the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) and a subsidiary charity.

Following the announcement, RNIB chief executive, Sally Harvey (pictured), has made the decision to step down with an interim chief executive to be appointed in her place.

The subsidiary charity of RNIB manages RNIB Pears Centre in Coventry, Warwickshire which provides residential care to children and young people.

In March the charity reported a series of serious incidents that occurred at the centre over the past year.

A Charity Commission press release explained: “The incidents raised concerns that the subsidiary charity may have consistently failed to comply with regulations designed to safeguard and protect vulnerable children.”

In response to the developments, a RNIB statement emphasised: “We are sorry that we have let down the children in our care and the people who loyally support RNIB. We are now doing absolutely everything we can to put things right and make sure the young people at RNIB Pears Centre receive the very best care and support.”