Schools’ veto on baby bank Vetting concerns and bankrupt founder
North Lanarkshire Council have sent an email to all schools in the Wishaw area advising them not to participate in or organise fundraising events on behalf of a Lanarkshire Bank Bank.
The local authority delivered the message to more than 200 educational establishments, from nurseries to secondary schools last Monday, after it “received a number of allegations in respect of this organisation” and became aware of “recent media coverage” about it.
The baby bank’s founder Bernadette Murphy, from Cleland, claims the organisation – which until recently operated out of premises in Coatbridge – has helped more than 1500 struggling families.
And Mrs Murphy was called a “remarkable and inspirational woman” by TV presenter Lorraine Kelly in relation to her efforts.
However, reports have revealed Mrs Murphy’s is a former bankrupt who had debts of more than £450,000.
And, in a separate development, it emerged that a regulator turned down the baby bank’s bid to become a charity.
The organisation has also had to defend itself over concerns from councillors about volunteers not undergoing Disclosure Scotland vetting.
The local authority has denied any direct association with the baby bank, but confirmed its social workers had previously advised people to use it.
The council’s message to schools cautioned: “You may be aware of the recent media coverage surrounding an organisation called Lanarkshire Baby Bank.
“The council has received a number of allegations in respect of this organisation and while these are investigated, and until further notice, no fundraising activity on behalf of Lanarkshire Baby Bank should take place within schools.”
Motherwell and Wishaw MP Marion Fellows said: “I have written twice to Ms Murphy asking her to refer constituents in need to the North Lanarkshire Referral pathway or to my office to ensure they are properly supported. “I have not received any reply. “If North Lanarkshire Council have reasonable grounds to advise people to suspend any involvement with the Lanarkshire Baby Bank then I recommend that this advice be taken until further notice.”
Last month, the baby bank left its unit in Coatbridge and moved into new premises in Carluke.
When asked for a comment, Mrs Murphy said she knew nothing about the council’s email to schools, and would only say: “We will continue fundraising for the baby bank.”