"Christopher Joell-Deshields, who has been in position since 2021, faces several allegations from the volunteer directors and others at the organisation. Current and former volunteers have told the BBC they are worried the allegations could damage one of Europe's biggest pride events at what is already a "precarious" time for pride organisations across the UK. Mr Joell-Deshields told The Guardian it would be "inappropriate" to discuss the matter in the press but claimed he remained in his role."
"The allegations, first reported in The Guardian, centre around the misuse of donations and of a "bullying culture" at the organisation, which has more than a hundred year-round volunteers and three paid members of staff. Mr Joell-Deshields is accused of using vouchers donated by a sponsor to purchase luxury fragrances as well as Apple speakers and headphones. The BBC understands there are also accusations of a toxic culture at the organisation, including allegations made by a disabled volunteer who says they received"
The chief executive of Pride in London has been suspended while under internal investigation for alleged bullying of a disabled volunteer and misuse of sponsor-donated vouchers. Allegations include using vouchers to buy luxury fragrances and consumer electronics and describe a wider toxic or bullying culture affecting year-round volunteers and paid staff. A disabled volunteer reports receiving bullying WhatsApp messages, and a separate legal dispute alleges that organisational policies discriminate against disabled volunteers. A newly formed board of London LGBT Community Pride has suspended the chief executive, while he has questioned that board's authority and indicated he remains in post.
Read at www.bbc.com
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