​Foodbank founder under fire but adamant she won't resign

Julie Webster, the controversial boss of Greater Maryhill Foodbank, has told TFN she won’t resign after Glasgow City Council launched a probe into the charity.

The 39-year-old is under fire after the authority instructed all departments to refuse Greater Maryhill Foodbank funding.

The investigation concerns £2,897 given to the foodbank, which is one of the busiest in Scotland, for CCTV equipment after it was broken into last year.

Webster was asked by the council to provide receipts detailing how the money was spent but has failed to do so, despite repeated requests, it is alleged.

This month an email was sent by Jim Wilson, head of services for education, recommending any charities the council helps administer "do not make any more payments" to the foodbank.

It is alleged the council is also angered that Webster was pictured on Facebook handing over toys to Glasgow’s St Monica's primary without being given permission to visit the school.

She told TFN: “I was the first to put food on the shelves of this foodbank and believe me I’ll be the last.

“I’ve worked for months without a salary and put the charity first and take great offence at any suggestion of wrongdoing.

Malicious sources have been spreading rumours but despite the council doing its worst against us, our popularity is soaring

“Malicious sources have been spreading rumours but despite the council doing its worst against us, our popularity is soaring.

“It’s unfortunate Glasgow council has decided to do this but my conscience is clear.

“There’s no way I’ll be resigning. This charity, this foodbank, will continue to go from strength to strength and help some of most needy people in the country.”

Earlier this year donations of about £15,000 were collected after Webster fronted a TV appeal for families affected by a hit and run accident which left Maryhill girl Sophie Brannan dead.

Glasgow comedian Frankie Boyle and the Scottish Government each gave the foodbank £5,000.

However a probe was launched after questions were asked about what the cash was spent on.

The charity regulator ruled that the actions of the foodbank were,“consistent with the general duties that they are subject to” but made a number of recommendations.

A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said: “Glasgow City Council will not be providing any further financial support to Greater Maryhill Foodbank.

“This decision was taken following an investigation into a whistleblowing complaint received earlier this year.”