Bogus charity scam warning

Tuesday August 17, 2010

Residents in Shepherds Bush and College Park are being warned about a bogus charity collection scam.

Hammersmith & Fulham Trading Standards have received several complaints from residents in the area about clothing collection sacks and leaflets asking residents to fill bags with unwanted clothing and goods.

At first, they appear to be from registered charities and that the donations will go towards helping poor or vulnerable people. However, on closer inspection, they are from businesses that collect clothes for their own profit.

The leaflets often display a company number rather than a registered charity number, even if the images appear to be authentic. You can check if the charity is registered and legitimate at www.charity-commission.gov.uk (opens new window).

Cllr Nicholas Botterill said: “These collection sacks and leaflets are incredibly deceptive – they look like the real thing and even claim to help our most vulnerable people, but don’t be fooled. These companies are opportunists preying on the good and charitable nature of our residents.

“Of course, registered charities do carry out these sort of schemes but I would urge residents to be aware, check their validity on the Charity Commission’s website and report any fake charities to the council’s Trading Standards team.”