OSCR Inquiry: Governance failures at free wheel north
Stuart McKay · Posted on: September 29th 2025 · read
The Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) recently published the findings of its inquiry into Free Wheel North, a Glasgow-based charity, citing major concerns around governance and trustee behaviour.
The charity had previously been the subject of regulatory action, and the new report highlights continued failure to implement recommendations, particularly the lack of a properly held Annual General Meeting (AGM) and internal disputes that compromised effective leadership.
OSCR exercised its statutory powers by directing the charity to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), during which a new Board of Trustees was appointed.
OSCR has since confirmed it will meet the new Board to discuss their responsibilities under charity law and ensure a stronger governance foundation is in place moving forward. OSCR | Inquiry report: Free Wheel North (SC039789)
This case serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities trustees hold when in place at a charity. Effective governance isn’t just a best practice; it’s a regulatory requirement. Trustees must ensure that all governance practices are held in accordance with their governing document, and any disagreements within the board should be managed with transparency and documented appropriately.
Charities should take this opportunity to review their own governance procedures and ensure they are compliant with regulatory expectations. This includes documenting meetings, ensuring trustee conflicts are properly managed, and maintaining a clear line of accountability for all decisions. Where internal disputes arise, boards are encouraged to seek mediation early, avoiding escalation to a point where regulatory intervention becomes necessary.
Trustees can also refer to OSCR’s guidance on governance and the Charity Commission’s equivalent resources in England and Wales to benchmark their processes. An annual governance review, even if informal, can go a long way in preventing oversight and maintaining public trust. With increased scrutiny across the UK’s charity regulators, strong governance is critical for sustainability.
