News by email Donate

Suggestions

World News

Investigation into allegations against senior staff at Christian student ministry UCCF still ongoing

by Heather Preston
uccf thumb.png - Banner image
UCCF

The Universities and Colleges Christian Fellowship (UCCF), which supports Christian Unions across the UK, says an investigation into allegations against two senior members of staff has taken "longer than anticipated."

UCCF’s board of trustees took the decision to suspend National Director Richard Cunningham and Field Director Tim Rudge in December 2022, to "assist with the integrity" of a formal independent investigation into "various allegations".

A statement issued at that time on behalf of the trustees said: "For the avoidance of doubt the allegations do not relate to matters of sexual misconduct."  The statement added that a suspension of this nature "is a normal practice in such circumstances and is not any indication of guilt. It is an important and biblical principle not to prejudge the outcome of any process."

In an update released on their website on 5th May, UCCF explained that the investigation remained ongoing after six months, clarifying that it is a first step in determining the validity of the allegations, and that its results will be confidential.

Independent employment barrister Hilary Winstone of Old Square Chambers was appointed in January to investigate the allegations, and UCCF released a statement saying she intended to “proceed quickly in order to minimise the period of uncertainty for all concerned.”

UCCF chair Chris Willmott said: “The process is taking longer than originally anticipated but all those involved are looking to be as swift as possible while being thorough and impartial and complying with all appropriate legal checks and balances.”

Willmott has encouraged people to continue to pray for a “fair resolution to this situation as soon as is reasonably possible” and expressed his gratitude to God that UCCF’s ministry has remained “faithful” and “fruitful” despite the recent challenges.

UCCF is a mission organisation working with university and college students in Christian Union groups across the UK, aimed at helping them to organise and attend faith-building and evangelistic events for young adults on campuses.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate