WARNING ON BOGUS COLLECTORS

The warning was made this week by Lewes MP Norman Baker.

Some leaflets pushed through the door give the impression that they are benefiting the poor but are actually delivered by businesses who simply keep the cash for themselves or sell clothing donations and pocket the proceeds.

The Charity Commission has made the following tips:

Does the leaflet say the collection is for a registered charity? If so, what is the registered charity number '“ call 0845 3000 218 or visit the online register of charities at www.charitycommission.gov.uk to check that it is genuine.

Does it only have a registered company number?

Be suspicious of imprecise and vague descriptions of the cause which is being collected for and make sure it's clear what the name of the charity is.

Does the leaflet give an address and a landline? Mobile phone numbers or none at all can be a sign the organisation doesn't want to answer questions.

Said Mr Baker: 'Bogus charity collectors take money away from legitimate charities, particularly at this time of year, by taking advantage of people's goodwill.

'Making the few simple checks makes it easier to sort real charities from bogus ones and will help to spell an end to unscrupulous businesses which are out to make a fast buck from the generosity of others.'