Kerbside Collections

Householders and business from time to time receive sacks, bags, fliers requesting good quality items. It is usually requested these are left out on certain days, for kerbside collection. The literature will normally state the name and details of the company operating the scheme, along with their registered company number. The information usually states the amount or the percentage that is given of the profit to various charities. Registered charities must display their charity number on any literature they produce. If all of this is adhered to, no law is being flouted.

The problem

• Some people feel they are being misled into giving to a private company rather than a charity.
• Some people feel the company are not donating sufficient an amount to the charity.
• Genuine charities who operate kerbside collections feel cheated by companies making profits from the good will of people.

Deciding whether to give

• Registered companies can be checked out at the companies house website. You will be able to see what the status of the company is. When did they last submit accounts? Who are the directors of the company?
• Contact the charity that is being named as the receiver of the donation. Are they happy with the donations they receive from these companies? When did they last receive a donation? How often do they receive donations?
• District Councils may keep a register of charities, collecting house to house.
• The Charity Commissioner has details of all registered charities.

Other ways to donate

• Some people use the sacks as general rubbish sacks.
• Some people donate directly to the charity.
• There are numerous charity shops in our towns who welcome donations, to their shops.
• Some people prefer to donate at the kerbside.

The choice is yours.