Genuine Charity Collections

We are happy to see charity collections in our area.  However, with the rise in demand for second-hand textiles and clothes, there have been reports of bogus collections, with some people even prepared to steal donations left out for recognised charities.

Any charity wishing to make collections is required to inform our Licensing Section (Tel. No. 01386 565016) and once agreement has been given they undertake collections on set days.

Reputable and licensed charities which have collected in our area include:

• Clothes Aid
• St. Richards Hospice
• Extra Care
• Salvation Army
• Oxfam
• Acorns

If you are in doubt or you know of a bogus operator in the area contact either our Licensing Section, Trading Standards (01905 765394) or the Police (08457 444888).

Here are some questions that can be asked to anyone who either requests to collect for charity on premises or is collecting on a door-to-door basis.

• Are they collecting for a registered charity?  If so, what is the registered charity number - call Tel. No. 0845 3000218 or visit the online register of charities at the Charity Commission website to check that it is genuine.
• A registered company number is not the same as a registered charity number, it just means that the organisation is registered with Companies House.
• Be suspicious of someone who says they are collecting for 'sick kids' or 'the homeless at Christmas' - what is the name of the charity?
• Do they have proof of a written agreement with the charity authorising them to collect on their behalf - a photocopied 'thank you for your donation' letter is not the same thing.  If in doubt phone the charity to check.
• Can they tell you what proportion of the money they raise will go to the charity?  Or, if they are paid, how much they are being paid?

Genuine charities will be happy to provide this information.

For more information contact:

Client Services
Wychavon District Council
Telephone: 01386 565018 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
Email:  client.services@wychavon.gov.uk