BHF battles against bogus collectors

11 Jan 2011 12:14 PM

We're meeting with Nick Hurd, the Civil Society Minister, and Detective Chief Superintendent Steve Head, the Head of the London Crime Unit, to discuss the growing problem of bogus collections.

During recent years the rising value of textiles on international markets has led to an increase in people stealing donated goods from doorsteps and charity clothing banks. In 2009/10, there were 250 thefts of donated goods from doorsteps meant for our shops.

We rely heavily on doorstep collections, but we’ve seen a 25% drop in household collections - meaning a loss of £3 million in the next year. The problem is on the rise too, with the figure expected to hit at least £6 million next year.

Stealing bags is akin to robbing people of a better quality of life.

Mike Lucas our Retail Director says: “All profits raised from goods donated to our shops go directly to fighting heart disease – the UK’s biggest killer.

"Household appeals are a vital source of income for shops. Stealing bags that have been left out for our charity is akin to robbing people with heart conditions of a better quality of life.”

Our collection vans display BHF logos and all operatives carry ID cards. To check if a legitimate collection is taking place in your neighbourhood, please contact your local shop. We would urge all householders to report any suspicious activity immediately to the police.

To find out more information or to locate your nearest shop please call 0844 412 5000 or visit our shops page