Naomi Campbell has been banned from serving as a charity trustee for five years after a UK watchdog found that her charity, Fashion for Relief, mishandled funds. Campbell admitted to failing in her duties as a trustee but denied any financial misconduct or personal gain from the charity.
An inquiry by the Charity Commission revealed that the charity, which raised nearly £4.8 million through fashion show fundraisers, only distributed 8.5% of the £4.6 million proceeds to partner charities. The investigation also uncovered unauthorised spending on luxury hotels, spa treatments, security, and cigarettes for Campbell, along with £290,000 in improper payments to fellow trustee Ms. Hellmich.
While Ms. Hellmich proposed repaying the funds, interim managers ensured full repayment. A spokesperson for Campbell said she “accepts her accountability” but emphasised she had not engaged in any financial wrongdoing. Fashion for Relief was removed from the charity register in March 2024.