Transgender youth assistance organization Mermaids is the subject of a statutory investigation, according to the Charity Commission.
In September, the regulatory agency began examining Mermaids in response to claims that the company supplied chest-binding devices to adolescents.
The Commission states that a formal investigation has been initiated due to “newly identified concerns” with Mermaids’ governance and administration.
Mermaids said it will cooperate with the Commission “completely and openly.”
Mermaids is the nation’s foremost charity providing gender and identity-related help to children and young adults under the age of 25.
Mermaids’ website contains a statement that reads, “The charity has an unflinching commitment to safeguarding, which has and always will be our top priority.”
“We will continue to completely, honestly, and transparently cooperate with the Charity Commission as its investigation proceeds.”
Mermaids stated that it was already prioritizing action on “several key concerns” identified in a report commissioned by the charity earlier this year regarding its own “equity, diversity, and inclusion.
It stated, “We recognize that we must do better and are fully committed to doing so.”
The Charity Commission stated that the beginning of the investigation does not indicate any misconduct.
Considerable allegations
The Commission, which oversees charities in England and Wales, began its inquiry into Mermaids in September after receiving complaints in response to claims in the Telegraph that the organization supplied chest-binding devices to adolescents.
According to the National Health Service, binding reduces the appearance of soft tissue by flattening the chest.
Transgender or non-binary individuals might use it to alleviate the symptoms of gender dysphoria, which is a sense of discomfort caused by a mismatch between biological sex and gender identity.
Individuals who prefer to bind their chest frequently employ devices known as binders. Others may create their own using sports bras, gym-specific compression apparel, bandages, and body tape.
Few medical studies have examined the hazards and benefits of chest binding. In March, an initial assessment on gender services for children voiced concerns that certain binding devices may be detrimental.
The Charity Commission stated that the inquiry, which began on November 28, will investigate:
- The trustees’ administration, governance, and management of the charity, as well as its leadership and culture.
- Whether the trustees have complied with and fulfilled their duties and responsibilities under charity law as trustees.
- Whether the trustees have engaged in misbehavior and/or mismanagement.
Once the investigation is complete, a report will be published with its results.
