Supermodel Naomi Campbell has taken action by initiating a new investigation into her charity, Fashion for Relief, following her recent disqualification as a trustee. The 54-year-old expressed concerns over the Charity Commission’s report, labelling it as “deeply flawed.” The report highlighted serious financial mismanagement, including extravagant expenses such as luxury hotel stays and spa treatments. Campbell, along with two other trustees, was banned from serving for five years in light of the investigation.
In a statement to the PA news agency, Campbell acknowledged her ultimate responsibility as the face of Fashion for Relief but stressed that she was not directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the organisation, delegating such responsibilities to others. She assured supporters that the findings are being taken seriously and has enlisted new advisers to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
Despite the allegations, Campbell vehemently denied receiving any remuneration for her involvement with Fashion for Relief or charging personal expenses to the charity. She emphasised her long-standing commitment to charitable causes, spanning nearly three decades, and clarified that any expenses incurred were either covered by paid assignments or personally funded. The model expressed her determination to pursue all available avenues, including possible appeals, to ensure a fair and accurate portrayal of the charity’s activities.
Fashion for Relief, established to support humanitarian causes through the fashion industry, underwent scrutiny from the Charity Commission in 2021, leading to its dissolution earlier this year. The commission’s investigation revealed that a significant portion of the charity’s expenditure was directed towards non-charitable activities. Additionally, the report flagged instances where fundraising expenses were not aligned with the charity’s best interests and where trustee actions were deemed as misconduct or mismanagement.
Campbell’s fellow trustees, Bianka Hellmich and Veronica Chou, also faced disqualifications, restricting their involvement in charitable organisations in England and Wales for varying durations. The commission noted that funds amounting to £344,000 were recovered, with a further £98,000 safeguarded.
Specific instances of lavish spending, such as a high-priced flight for art transport and costly hotel stays, were highlighted in the report. It critiqued the trustees for failing to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness of certain expenditures and raised concerns about the misuse of charitable resources.
Despite the challenges posed by the investigation, Campbell expressed her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society. The supermodel’s decision to delve into the allegations and seek transparency underscores her dedication to upholding the integrity of charitable endeavours.