James Anderson apologized after using photos of a dead woman to promote Depher.
James Anderson, a plumber from Burnley known as 'Britain's nicest plumber', has been accused of making up heart-warming stories to raise donations for his charity, Depher (Disabled and Elderly, Plumbing and Heating Emergency Response). BBC research.
The BBC claims that Anderson repeatedly used photos of the same dead woman in social media posts promoting Depher's work. Additionally, the investigation alleges that Anderson filmed and shared videos and images of a vulnerable customer in his 90s, publicly revealing the man's sexuality despite his reported pleas not to be filmed for social media. The unnamed customer reportedly said so BBC“God no,” when asked for permission.
Depher claims to use donations for a variety of purposes, including free food delivery, covering gas and electric bills, offering pro bono plumbing services, and even assisting with funeral expenses for former clients. Anderson's charitable acts received widespread public attention and received financial support from celebrities such as Hugh Grant and Lily Allen. He even landed an appearance on ITV's “This Morning” to promote his work.
however, the BBC investigation raises questions about the legitimacy of Depher's activities. The alleged misuse of photos and disregard for a customer's privacy cast a shadow on Anderson's working method.
Anderson prevented an elderly woman from committing suicide, the company claimed. In fact, she had died years earlier.
He denied some of the BBC's accusations but admitted, “I made mistakes.”
Since 2019, Depher has posted hundreds of stories of acts of kindness it says it has performed.
The social media stories made him a viral sensation during Britain's cost-of-living crisis and brought in at least £2 million in donations, an investigation found. BBC analysis of his company's accounts.
