Bogus Charity Collector in your area

We would like to make residents aware of a female who has been going door-to-door claiming to be collecting money for charity in your area. 

Information received suggests that she is not a legitimate charity collector and is believed to be a bogus caller.

There are some bogus charity collectors who claim to be fundraising for legitimate charities but there are others who set up fabricated charities. These are usually emotive issues such as children or cancer. These scams can be door to door or by phone. 

There are many legitimate charities fundraising for good causes so every pound lost to a scam charity is a pound less that can be donated to a reputable cause.  

Do not let legitimate charities lose out. 

Those who wish to donate to charity should therefore check the legitimacy of the fundraiser before donating. 

To check if a charity is genuine: 

Ask to see the identification of the fundraiser if you are asked to donate in person. All legitimate charity fundraisers carry official identification when they are fundraising. Make sure the identification is genuine. 

All charities must be registered with the Charity Commission. You can check by visiting the Charity Commission’s website. 

Do not give out personal information and bank details to make a regular donation by Standing Order unless you are satisfied the person you are talking to is genuine. You can always phone the charity back on a known published phone number on the charity official website. 

Charity collectors require a street collection permit or a house-to-house collection licence from Kirklees Council. They must be a registered charity or non-commercial organisation. 

If you have lost money to fraud, contact Report Fraud UK's Home for Reporting Cyber Crime & Fraud - Report Fraud

Please remain vigilant and do not feel pressured into making any donations at your door. Genuine charity collectors should be able to provide official identification and details of the organisation they represent.

If you are approached by this individual, do not hand over any money or personal information. If you have concerns about a caller, trust your instincts, close the door, and contact the police if necessary.

We encourage residents to check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours who may be more susceptible to this type of activity.

If you have seen this individual in your area or have any information, please report it via 101 or online through the West Yorkshire Police website. In an emergency, always call 999.

Please share this message with family, friends and neighbours to help keep our communities safe.