Cheating on charities
So-called 'bogus collectors' prey on the good will of the public and take donated clothing 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 can I 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
- Legitimate collectors should carry identification
- 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
- The law requires bona fide charity collectors to carry identification.
- 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
Clothes Aid's own white collection vans are all marked with the Clothes Aid logo and often that of the charity for whom we are collecting. All our collectors wear our smart new uniform and carry Clothes Aid identification.
What should I do if I 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 and usually a partner charity logo.
Call your Local Police or ring the Clothes Aid help line 0870 607 4600. Any information you give is helpful, including
- The address from where the donation 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 the public from continuing to donate clothing to charities.
Don't let thieves steal your charitable spirit. The proceeds raised through your donations are an important source of charity support.