Sarah Ferguson suffers major blow after Andrew scandal fallout | Royal | News

Sarah Ferguson’s charity was on the brink of dissolution within weeks of announcing it would cease operations indefinitely due to revelations from the Epstein Files.

The charity, known as Sarah’s Trust, was founded in 2020 to help vulnerable communities and support education programs around the world. But last month it was revealed the charity would be suspending its operations for the “foreseeable future” due to revelations about ex Prince Andrew.

The Charity Commission, which oversees charities in England and Wales, has now issued a “regulatory warning” for Sarah’s Trust. The notice states: “The Commission intends to terminate this CIO within three months of the date of this notice unless cause is shown to the contrary.”

The notice also states: “Representations must be made to the Commission within three months.” Such alerts are often issued in response to emerging threats such as cyber attacks, new legal liabilities, or protection failures.

It was revealed that there was a significant decrease in the charity’s donations last year. Income has fallen from around £150,000 in the previous 12 months to just £31,000 in 2024.

Prominent London heart surgeon Professor Ramzi Khamis, one of the trustees, resigned just days after Ferguson was included in Epstein’s first email group.

Ferguson spoke of a “tumultuous” year and argued that every child deserves the right to “thrive” just weeks before he became embroiled in the Epstein scandal.

Seven charities severed ties with her as patron or ambassador in September after an email emerged in which she referred to sex offender Epstein as her “great friend” and expressed regret for his public condemnation of her in 2011.

Just a few days earlier, Sarah’s Trust had submitted its annual report to the Charity Commission, writing: “It is with deep gratitude and renewed intent that I share this year’s annual report.

“The past year has brought both personal challenges and profound clarity. My journey with cancer has strengthened my belief in the importance of early detection, compassionate care and life-saving research carried out by dedicated medical charities.

“It has deepened my resolve to stand with those working to prevent, treat and ultimately cure this disease and to ensure that others facing similar battles are never alone.

“I am particularly passionate about supporting the potential of young people. Every young person deserves the chance to thrive, discover their voice and become their fullest, most confident self.

“Thank you to everyone who stands with us. Together we can continue to bring light where it is needed most.” She signed the report as ‘Duchess of York’.

She has since been stripped of her royal title, along with her ex-husband, the former Prince Andrew. Regarding her goals, Sarah’s Trust states: “Sarah is dedicated to children and health issues, with a focus on education.

“He traveled the world to see projects firsthand and personally raised significant donations for causes that shared his passion for change.”

The Express reached out to the charity and asked Sarah Ferguson for comment.