A trustee at an LGBTQ+ support charity has stepped down and apologised after about £280,000 had been given or loaned to non-profit companies he runs, the charity’s latest accounts show.

Christopher Gull, former chair of the Brighton Rainbow Fund, submitted his resignation last week.

The charity’s latest accounts, for the year to the end of September 2023, show a grant worth £225,175 was given to the Ledward Centre, an LGBTQ+ community centre which was set up by the Brighton Rainbow Fund.

A further £48,000 was loaned to Scene Magazine Media CIC, the publisher of GScene magazine.

Gull is a director of both organisations and there was no deadline set for the money to be repaid. In addition, unlike the charity’s annual grants, these awards were not publicly announced.

“I want to be clear that all funds directed to the Ledward Centre and Scene have been properly invested in operational costs and facility improvements,” Gull said.

“Throughout my nearly 30-year journey of running charities and non-profits since 1992, all my roles have been unpaid, driven solely by a commitment to serve our community.”

Gull acknowledged that some of his decisions had caused difficulties for community groups and individuals.

“This weighs heavily on me, particularly given my long-standing dedication to supporting and strengthening our community.”

“Brighton Rainbow Fund remains a vital and unique institution that has been instrumental in advancing many essential services in our city.”

The Charity Commission said it was assessing concerns raised about the Brighton Rainbow Fund to determine whether it had a regulatory role.

“I am fully co-operating with the Charity Commission’s investigation and look forward to its findings being made public,” Gull said.

“I remain committed to full transparency throughout this process and welcome the Charity Commission’s thorough examination of all matters.

“Its expertise will ensure a comprehensive review that will provide our community with complete and accurate information.”

Gull said he had submitted his resignation as a trustee of the BRF, which will take effect once a new trustee is appointed.

He has also “ceased all funding” to the Ledward Centre and Scene magazine during this period.

The Brighton Rainbow Fund has been contacted for comment.