Former HIV Scotland chief and SNP adviser admits embezzlement

A former charity chief executive has admitted embezzling £5,000.

Nathan Sparling, from Glasgow, said he “accepted full responsibility” for taking money from HIV Scotland between 2019 and 2021.

HIV Scotland shut down in 2023, citing a “number of significant challenges”.

Sentencing will take place in May, though Sparling, 35, has offered to make a repayment to a “similar charity”.

Sparling was charged with fraud a month after HIV Scotland wound up. He joined as chief executive in December 2018 but was suspended and replaced two years later.

The investigation found £2,000 had been spent on taxis and £3,000 on Amazon packages delivered to Sparling’s home.

Sparling was only authorised to make purchases of up to £50 using HIV Scotland’s funds for charity business. A colleague had noticed the large number of taxi journeys charged to the account, prompting an investigation.

The charity was established in 1994, then known as the Scottish Voluntary HIV and AIDS Forum. It cited governance concerns and a “precarious funding climate” when it wound up three years ago.

Sparling previously worked as an adviser to Angus Robertson during his time as an MP.

Sentencing was deferred until 20 May for background reports.