A former manager at Argyll and Bute Women’s Aid Charity has been jailed for 20 months after stealing nearly £40,000. Jay Reid diverted the funds to pay for holidays and personal bills while managing the charity’s children’s service in Dunoon, Scotland.
Women’s Aid charity manager embezzles nearly £40,000
Staff uncovered the theft after noticing unpaid pension contributions, prompting a full audit of the charity’s finances. A report by Third Sector confirmed that Reid’s spending included trips to Tenerife and Amsterdam, purchases from IKEA, a WeightWatchers membership, vet bills, and online shopping.
Reid held control over the branch’s bank account between December 2016 and January 2021. An investigation found she used a Women’s Aid Charity credit card for £39,726 in illegitimate purchases, none for service users.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) confirmed that a subsequent inquiry by charity officials helped establish the full extent of her misconduct.
“Jay Reid committed an egregious betrayal of trust by taking advantage of her position to embezzle money from her employers,” said Anne Marie Hicks, Procurator Fiscal for North Strathclyde. “She showed no regard for the impact her crimes would have on vulnerable women and children who relied on support from Women’s Aid or the effect it would have on those trying to run such an important charity.”
Police Scotland Sergeant Kamila Jelonkiewicz confirmed that Reid had violated the trust placed in her by acting dishonestly to obtain substantial sums from the charity. She emphasized that Police Scotland remains committed to investigating financial crimes thoroughly and holding those responsible accountable.
Charity response and strengthened governance
A spokesperson for Argyll and Bute Women’s Aid said Reid’s actions represented a serious breach of trust and were contrary to the charity’s core values. The incident had caused significant distress for staff, the people the organisation supports, and the wider community.
They added that Argyll and Bute Women’s Aid SCIO continues to provide vital services for women and children facing domestic abuse. The charity remains a trusted provider in the region and maintains high standards of care and integrity.
This case highlights the need for strong financial controls in nonprofits. A topic explored by Charity Journal through its analysis of outsourced finance solutions.
The charity established a new Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO) in 2019 with a new board and manager. The spokesperson confirmed the organisation is committed to trauma-informed services and meeting increasing demand.
This case underscores the importance of strong internal systems to protect charitable funds and maintain public trust. Charity Journal has outlined best practices for verifying and monitoring charities to help organisations safeguard their operations.
