Inquiry into finances at firm helping job hunters

Internal auditors from Hull Council are investigating after claims of financial irregularities at Springsboard Ltd.

The Hull-based social enterprise offers employment opportunities through its biggest project, the East Hull Hub.

Allegations include claims that false invoices were put through the books from a defunct company. The Hub's offices on Holderness Road are currently closed to the public, while interim management measures are put in place.

It follows the suspension last week of the whistleblowers who raised concerns about Springsboard's finances, the general manager of the Hub project Keith Gibson and business development manager Lucus Elliott, from Springsboard.

Around six other staff were suspended on Monday after downing tools in sympathy last Friday.

Mr Gibson said: "Both myself and Lucus raised a couple of allegations with the board. We put a grievance letter in and in the afternoon we were told we were being put on special leave. Two days later they said we were suspended.

"All we want is a thorough investigation."

In a statement Hull Council confirmed they were investigating allegations of financial mismanagement in consultation with Humberside Police's economic crime unit .

It added: "While this is ongoing we are working with One Hull and other partners to secure continued delivery of the services the project provides."

Springsboard managing director Denise White said the pair were suspended because of alleged threatening behaviour. "We are grateful that people have brought this information to us but what has happened since then is outrageous," she said.