Positive Action in Housing had a wonderful AGM on Thursday 1 November where we presented our Annual Report and Audited Accounts. The AGM was attended by over 150 people who heard speeches from members and service users, as well as a brilliant inspiring Keynote contribution on the theme of Trust by David Orr, Chief Executive of the NHF and a founder member of Positive Action in Housing.
Unfortunately, while the AGM was taking place, our website was hacked for a few minutes and false, malicious and defamatory material purporting to be from a former employee was added. Security has been further tightened on our website and the offending material removed. However, further false and malicious allegations (sent anonymously) have been discovered on social media. Our server was also flooded with offensive emails on Friday morning – something clearly designed to hurt our staff and volunteers.
On behalf of the trustees, we wish to assure our members, supporters and friends that this matter is being taken extremely seriously and has been placed in the hands of Strathclyde Police who are also investigating large amounts of racist and antisemitic hatemail sent to our Chief Executive Officer, Robina Qureshi. These investigations are in addition to the police investigation into the alleged embezzlement of funds by a former employee. It remains our intention to cooperate fully with Strathclyde Police to secure criminal prosecution and to allow nothing to hamper that.
Should you receive or discover any form of communications from someone purporting to be a former employee of this charity, please ignore it and kindly alert us immediately by emailing home@paih.org and all evidence will be acted upon and reported to the police.
Please be assured that the work of Positive Action in Housing continues. We have a vigorous new training programme with some new and exciting projects. Our Money Skills Project continues to help those experiencing poverty from the BME, refugee and new migrant communities. the Lifeline Project continues to assist those facing destitution in Glasgow or elsewhere in Scotland. Our work with members to assist with policy matters, best practice in equality and diversity, and to help build closer links with minority ethnic communities also continues. Our anti racist work to stop hate crime and challenge far right activity in our communities also continues. The management committee, staff and volunteers are united that nothing will be allowed to hamper this important work.
Finally, we are thankful for all the support and good wishes we have received during this time.
Yours sincerely,
Jelina Berlow-Rahman, Chair
Najimee Parveen, Vice Chair
Linda Brown, Company Secretary
Philip Tompkins, Treasurer