CAF Bank online services suspended, UK charities face payroll disruption

CAF Bank, the banking arm of the Charities Aid Foundation that serves over 14,000 UK non‑profit organisations, halted its online banking platform on 24 July after reports of suspected cyber‑fraud. The suspension has left many South‑East charities unable to access accounts, delaying payroll and supplier payments. Among those affected is Maidstone‑based 21 Together, which supports people with Down’s syndrome; its chief executive Kevan Hodges described the situation as “appalling” and warned staff may not be paid. Bali Rodgers, chief executive of the Safer Communities Alliance, said grassroots groups such as churches, YMCAs and veterinary practices are losing trust in the bank and have received little reassurance. CAF Bank’s chief executive Alison Taylor apologised, stating the core banking functions remain intact and that the bank is working with external experts to resolve a third‑party software issue before restoring online access.