Cheating on charities
Helpline: 08450 722 780 Monday to Friday 9am-5pm |
So-called 'bogus collectors' prey on the good will of the public and take charity bags put out for collection to make a profit for themselves. Typically, the householder will receive a leaflet through the door appealing for donations of unwanted clothing to be distributed to poor families in Eastern Europe or the Third World. Householders are asked to leave the goods in plastic bags by their front door. These are later collected anonymously by unmarked vehicles.
How to tell if a collector is genuine
The donation bag should state:
- The charity's name and registered charity number
- The authorised collection agent's name, address and telephone number
- A financial statement indicating what proceeds the charity will receive
Also, the law requires bona fide charity collectors to carry identification. Clothes Aid's own white collection vans are all marked with the Clothes Aid logo. All our collectors wear our smart new uniform and carry Clothes Aid identification.
Where to find information
- Contact the Charity Commission help line 0870 333 0123
- Contact your Local Authority's Licensing Department to see if the collector has been granted a license to collect in your area
- Check the organisation's or charity's website
- Contact your local Trading Standards to check on suspicioius companies
- You can also check the legitimacy of a company by visiting Companies House website which is www.companieshouse.gov.uk. Bear in mind that status as an active company does not necessarily ensure that its agents are trustworthy
What to do if you notice something suspicious
If you are at home, notice who is collecting your bag. Our collectors always carry identification, wear a distinct uniform, and drive vans marked with the Clothes Aid logo.
Call your Local Police or ring the Clothes Aid help line on 08450 722 780. Any information you give is helpful, including
- The address from where the charity bag was taken
- The registration number of the vehicle
- A brief description of the suspect
Putting an end to theft
Thanks to the vigilance of members of the public, we have already caught and successfully prosecuted some of these 'bogus collectors'. Clothes Aid is working closely with the Police and Trading Standards to put a stop to this theft once and for all and will always press for the most severe penalties. Please continue to support our partner charities in this way.
It is very important that bag theft does not deter you from continuing to give clothing to charities.
Don't let thieves steal your charitable spirit. The proceeds raised through your unwanted clothes are an important source of charity support.