Bogus charity collectors alert (From Halesowen News)

Bogus charity collectors alert

2:10pm Tuesday 9th February 2010

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PEOPLE are being warned not to get caught out by bogus charity collectors.

Worcestershire County Council’s trading standards officers receive about one report a week from residents who claim to have been the victim of bogus collections.

The collections cost genuine charities about £2 million each year across the country.

Officers suggest residents read the small print on charity bags and check the contact information is correct before making donations.

The county council’s cabinet member for transport and safe environment, Derek Prodger, said: “The majority of charity collections are geunine and are a vital source of funding for these important organisations.

“However, there are some collections which are not genuine and residents need to take steps to ensure their donations reach the people who really need them.”

If residents have any doubts about collections in their area they should contact the Charity Commission on 0845 3000218 or Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

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