Liz Sayce, who led inquiry into department’s failures, ‘distressed’ at carers being blamed for running up huge overpayments

The Department of Work and Pensions needs a management and cultural overhaul if it is to restore public trust after the benefits scandal which left hundreds of thousands of unpaid carers in debt, a key government adviser has warned.

Prof Liz Sayce led a scathing review of the carer’s allowance scandal, which found the DWP system and leadership failures were responsible for carers unknowingly running up huge debts, some of which resulted in serious mental illness and, possibly, criminal convictions for fraud.

Milestone reached as journalists including Polly Toynbee and John Crace prepare for fundraising event on Saturday

• Call 0203 353 4368 to donate via the telethon

• You can also donate to our charity appeal here

The first week of the Guardian’s Hope appeal has raised more than £200,000 for grassroots charities doing inspiring work to bring divided communities together, promoting tolerance and positive change, and opposing racism and hate.

The milestone was reached before the annual fundraising telethon on Saturday. Journalists preparing to take donations over the phone include Polly Toynbee, John Crace, Jonathan Liew, Patrick Wintour and Simon Hattenstone.

Hope appeal supports grassroots charities who work with communities hit by division, distrust and racism

• Donate to our charity appeal here

More than £100,000 has been raised by generous Guardian readers in less than a week for the Hope appeal, supporting grassroots charities that promote tolerance, compassion and social justice in communities hit by division, distrust and racism.

The appeal has partnered with five charities: Citizens UK, The Linking Network, Locality, Hope Unlimited, and Who Is Your Neighbour?