Sarah's Trust, a charity founded by Sarah Ferguson, has been formally dissolved following scrutiny of her past connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The trust, which aimed to connect philanthropists with charitable causes, was officially wound up last month, according to records from the Charity Commission. The commission's website now lists the trust as 'removed,' signifying it is no longer a registered charity. It was also registered at Companies House as a 'charitable incorporated organisation,' but its status has since been updated to 'converted/closed.'
Sarah Ferguson, the King's former sister-in-law, has faced calls to cooperate with U.S. authorities regarding Epstein. This comes after the release of numerous documents earlier this year that provided further insight into their relationship. One reported email exchange suggested Ferguson took her daughters to meet Epstein in the United States shortly after his release from prison for child sex crimes.
In February, shortly after new details of their association began to surface, Sarah's Trust reportedly announced it would close for an indefinite period. Several other charities previously linked with the former Duchess of York also severed ties. These included the Teenage Cancer Trust, which ended her 35-year patronage, and the children's hospice Julia's House. Prevent Breast Cancer, The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, and the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals also distanced themselves.
Epstein's activities also played a role in the downfall of Ferguson's ex-husband, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He was reportedly stripped of his royal titles by the King due to "serious lapses of judgment" concerning his friendship with Epstein. Following these events, Sarah Ferguson lost her courtesy royal title and reverted to her maiden name. She also had the freedom of the city of York revoked after councillors voted unanimously to remove the honor due to her association with Epstein. Ferguson and Andrew were originally granted the honor as a wedding present from the city in 1987.
Ferguson and her ex-husband previously resided at his former home, Royal Lodge. However, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was required to vacate the property and relocate to Marsh Farm on the King's Sandringham estate in Norfolk. Amidst these changes, the former Duchess has reportedly sought a new residence, with speculation suggesting she might relocate abroad permanently. A representative for Sarah Ferguson has been contacted for comment.