An LGBT+ charity says it is in a “secure financial position” to continue to provide services – despite allegations that it sought money from a controversial platform used by pornographers.
Opening Doors, which supports older gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people, said it had reviewed its finances and was a “going concern” after reports in the i newspaper that it was struggling.
The charity did not deny claims, however, that it sought funding last year from OnlyFans, a video-sharing site criticised over claims it failed to prevent children selling and appearing in explicit content.
Opening Doors discussed a potential £100,000 deal with Only Fans last summer, leading some trustees to raise concerns about whether it would be appropriate, according to reports.
The charity did not respond to questions about whether it ever received any money from the company.
The charity said it had “some payment arrears” with HMRC but had an arrangement in place to pay off the debt in the next year, The Independent said.
Opening Doors raised £617,000 in the year to the end of March 2022, according to its most recent accounts filed with the Charity Commission, but ended the financial year with a £140,000 deficit. Its reserves fell by more than half, from £265,000 to £126,000.
A spokesperson for Opening Doors said: “As with many charities, we have experienced financial challenges since the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We have carried out a full review to ensure our funding was allocated in line with funders’ requirements and sought professional advice about our financial status.
“As a result of these investigations and the advice we received, the board is confident that the charity remains a going concern and is in a secure financial position to provide essential services to LGBTQ+ people over 50.”
They added: “The need for our services is only increasing as we face a cost-of-living crisis and a growing hostile environment for LGBTQ+ people in the UK.
“We will continue to support LGBTQ+ people over 50 to lead full, vibrant and respected lives free from isolation, loneliness, discrimination and prejudice.”