Clothing Donations
Merthyr Tydfil Trading Standards Service is asking residents to beware of groups of people who claim to be collecting for either a Third World clothing appeal or for young families who cannot afford new items. The groups are not registered charities but commercial organisations that operate at a profit, although their information may suggest otherwise.
Steve Peters, Head of Trading Standards stated that companies have been delivering leaflets in the Merthyr area asking for donations of clothing, shoes, handbags, belts, towels, curtains, blankets, sheets, underwear and perfumes. They request that the items are put into plastic bags and left visibly outside the consumer’s front door.
Mr Peters said, “Unfortunately it would appear that goods which are generously donated are not given to the needy but sold for a profit. These companies visit Merthyr on a regular basis.”
Trading Standards advise residents to carefully read the small print and check any numbers given on the leaflets. In some cases the leaflets give a number but this is a Companies House registration as opposed to a Charity Commission number.
Any leaflet carrying a Charity Commission reference number can be checked by calling 0845 300 0218 or by visiting the Commission website at www.charity-commission.gov.uk. Mr Peters emphasised that “These companies are taking advantage of the generosity of Merthyr residents. The ‘donated’ goods are not passed on to those who need them but are sold abroad for a profit. Unfortunately genuine charities are missing out due to these unscrupulous organisations. We urge residents to check details with the Charity Commission and, if in doubt, contact Trading Standards on 01685 725027. Also if residents participate in the Authority’s War on Waste kerbside collection, items can be collected as part of this scheme. All textiles collected are then distributed to Oxfam. Alternatively there are ‘bring’ sites located within the County Borough with textile recycling facilities. For further details contact the Council's recycling officer on 01685 725302.