Expert comment Last updated 17 May
A leading psychologist at Birmingham City University is warning the actions of 'hero plumber' James Anderson and his Community Interest Company (CIC), Depher, may lead to fewer people willing to donate to CICs or ask them for support.
The man once named the UK’s ‘kindest plumber’ is coming under increased scrutiny after a BBC investigation revealed James Anderson had faked stories of helping people to raise millions for his Community Interest Company (CIC), Depher.
Professor of Occupational Health Psychology Craig Jackson (pictured) says the actions of Depher are “unique” in their scale.
He added: “This case goes beyond the occasional business ‘bigging themselves up’ in an isolated social media post, but seems to present a long-term, coordinated attempt to inaccurately represent any social good Depher has done.
“Those who make money from the cost-of-living crisis know that it is a time-limited window of opportunity for them.
“It is a sad fact that many people with criminal intent do use their professions to enhance their offending, as it’s often a perfect disguise for accessing the vulnerable.”
Professor Jackson, an expert in the links between work and crime, says while tighter UK restrictions have been brought in to regulate online advertising, social media remains a “wild west”.
He added: “Social media is effectively free advertising with few restrictions. False representations such as Depher’s may put doubt into the minds of the public and they may be more cautious to give to charity or good causes.
“More worryingly, vulnerable people may be less likely to seek help from genuine CICs following this investigation if they feel concerned about being ‘used’ for social media engagement.”
The BBC also found Depher used vulnerable people's photos without consent. Anderson denied some of the BBC's allegations but apologised to those affected.
Professor Jackson says he expects the number of people to come forward with similar stories about Depher to increase following the investigation.
“Those who exploit vulnerable people and post ‘sob-stories’ online may see it as no different from other lies and exaggerations they see also posted on social media,” he said.
“We need to ask how did Depher find such individuals to exploit? Did they actively hunt for them, knocking door to door, or scour social media for desperate people in need of help?
“With such little regard shown for the truth, professionalism, or the rights of their clients, it is hard to see how the Fundraising Regulator could view the actions of Depher CIC in any other way than being grossly irresponsible at best.”