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 5 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.
