Former Girl Guides Volunteer Stripped of Civic Awards Following Fraud Conviction

A civic award has been rescinded from a former Girl Guides volunteer implicated in a scheme that defrauded taxpayers of almost £500,000. Jean Barnbrook, along with her older sister, Sara, was reported to have “manipulated” other volunteers into approving fraudulent Gift Aid claims, according to testimony at Leeds Crown Court last month. The two individuals, both residing on Templar Lane in Leeds, used the funds acquired for personal luxuries, apparel, and home renovations. Jean Barnbrook, who received a 30-month jail sentence after admitting guilt to a single count of money laundering, has now had her Volunteer of the Year award, presented by Leeds City Council in 2017, officially withdrawn. This particular award was presented during a ceremony designed to honor unsung heroes throughout the city. Furthermore, the 51-year-old has also had a second award from the council rescinded, which was given for her contributions to a youth group located in east Leeds. A representative for the local authority stated: “In light of recent events, the council has made the decision to revoke the Compassionate City Award and the Highly Commended Award previously presented to Jean Barnbrook as the actions of this individual do not reflect the spirit of the awards.” Councillor Mark Dobson, affiliated with the Garforth and Swillington Independents group, expressed approval of this development. Dobson, who indicated he had advocated for the council to withdraw the awards, commented: “Leeds is incredibly fortunate in having a whole range of volunteers in many areas who devote their time, free of charge, to helping others and it is right that the city recognises their efforts.” He added: “To have allowed Barnbrook to have retained her awards would have been a slap in the face for all those individuals who have genuinely made a difference in the city.” Sara Barnbrook, who admitted guilt to a single charge of defrauding the public purse, received a three-year prison sentence, delivered concurrently with her sister’s sentencing.