Topic ID 1483
If, like me, you received a leaflet through the door this week from Ambertop Ltd about a clothes collection please consider carefully before you leave items for them. Despite the appearance of a charity Ambertop are a limited company. Actually, they WERE a limited company but have been dissolved. You would do better waiting for a genuine chairty clothes collection or taking your goods to a local charity shop. And you might want to check the following information on Ambertop..... http://www.ukdata.com/creditreports/viewCompanyDetails.do?companyId=05333502
Reply ID 18361
Useful links [url="http://www.guardian.co.uk/fairtrade/story/0,,1548053,00.html"]Are clothes collectors breaking the rules?[/url] (The Guardian) [url="http://www.guardian.co.uk/fairtrade/story/0,,1548053,00.html"]Are leaflet scams warning[/url] (Bradford Telegraph & Argus)
Reply ID 20239
We got another clothing collection leaflet through the door this morning from "Third world clothing collection" IT is run through Lairatex Ltd, who i have google and come up with nothing. So Google third world clothing collection and got this http://www.guardian.co.uk/fairtrade/story/0,,1548053,00.html
Reply ID 20242
quote:The link you've posted is the same as the post immediately above yours!
Originally posted by GillP
IT is run through Lairatex Ltd, who i have google and come up with nothing. So Google third world clothing collection and got this http://www.guardian.co.uk/fairtrade/story/0,,1548053,00.html
Reply ID 20937
Another leaflet in Park Road today. Same thing but from Helpmates Limited; a company of the same name was dissolved in Nov 2005 and this new one was incorporated in April 2006. This leaflet does actually say it is a commercial collecting company, and that it provides people in the 3rd world with clothes they can afford. But if, as it says on the leaflet, "God will reward for your good hearts", God can reward me when I send my old clothes to a charity that GIVES the clothes to people in the third world (mind you I have terrible dress sense - they might send the clothes back)!
Reply ID 33623
They're back. This time it's International Children Support, and like the one above they are bringing God into it: 'God said - 'Give to others and you will be given'. However, the small print goes onto explain that 'Siddai Ltd is a collecting company, which was established to provide essential support for underprivileged children and their parents. We achieve our aim by supplying items such as clothing, bedding to charities and pure villages' parishes in Eastern Europe or selling them for affordable price to help improve the quality of life for those families most in need. We also help to create employment in UK for those delivering and collecting the bags door to to door.'. Siddai Ltd appear to be based at a Hatfield address, although the company registration number they print on the leaflet is not the same one they have listed on the Companies House web-site!
Reply ID 33625
I used to work for a national umbrella body for charity shops and this is a huge problem for genuine charities, it costs them millions each year. As a good rule of thumb, if the charity isn't a household name, or a well-known local charity don't fill the bag and, if you can be bothered, you could contact the Charity Commission (I don't expect anyone to be bothered enough to do that though [;)]). This is a huge industry, with collectors coming from Eastern Europe and further, to profit from it. It's cos it's so hard to police and the fact that no serious police time is going to be given to this that they know they can get away with it. Makes me very annoyed [B)], of all the people to steal from you'd think charities wouldn't be very high on people's agendas.
Reply ID 33995
quote:So pleased I read your comments. I sorted 12 bags of good quality clothing over the weekend and had big doubts about giving it to this organisation. I guess the ease of not having to drive it to a local charity shop is appealing. However, I am off to the British Heart Foundation Shop this morning with a loaded car.
Originally posted by Kate
They're back. This time it's International Children Support, and like the one above they are bringing God into it: 'God said - 'Give to others and you will be given'. However, the small print goes onto explain that 'Siddai Ltd is a collecting company, which was established to provide essential support for underprivileged children and their parents. We achieve our aim by supplying items such as clothing, bedding to charities and pure villages' parishes in Eastern Europe or selling them for affordable price to help improve the quality of life for those families most in need. We also help to create employment in UK for those delivering and collecting the bags door to to door.'. Siddai Ltd appear to be based at a Hatfield address, although the company registration number they print on the leaflet is not the same one they have listed on the Companies House web-site!
Reply ID 34000
quote:Great, they happily receive donations as do Oxfam (moved and got ris of loads of VHS) Nobody wanted them. Has a suprise (won't name them) but told my 15 year old and mate that they were lucky that they accepted the bags (Lots of) of brand new, well known chain, clothes. One of my personal favorite charities.
Originally posted by patden100quote:So pleased I read your comments. I sorted 12 bags of good quality clothing over the weekend and had big doubts about giving it to this organisation. I guess the ease of not having to drive it to a local charity shop is appealing. However, I am off to the British Heart Foundation Shop this morning with a loaded car.
Originally posted by Kate
They're back. This time it's International Children Support, and like the one above they are bringing God into it: 'God said - 'Give to others and you will be given'. However, the small print goes onto explain that 'Siddai Ltd is a collecting company, which was established to provide essential support for underprivileged children and their parents. We achieve our aim by supplying items such as clothing, bedding to charities and pure villages' parishes in Eastern Europe or selling them for affordable price to help improve the quality of life for those families most in need. We also help to create employment in UK for those delivering and collecting the bags door to to door.'. Siddai Ltd appear to be based at a Hatfield address, although the company registration number they print on the leaflet is not the same one they have listed on the Companies House web-site!
Reply ID 35745
Many thanks for your note. Siddai Ltd Company No 5875784 . On the leaflet printed company number is wrong. We are doing everything to correct this mistake as soon as possible. We`d like to note that Siddai Ltd not charity company , but with part of donated goods we are supporting parish & diocese in Eastern Europe. Best Regards I.C.S.
quote:
Originally posted by Kate
They're back. This time it's International Children Support, and like the one above they are bringing God into it: 'God said - 'Give to others and you will be given'. However, the small print goes onto explain that 'Siddai Ltd is a collecting company, which was established to provide essential support for underprivileged children and their parents. We achieve our aim by supplying items such as clothing, bedding to charities and pure villages' parishes in Eastern Europe or selling them for affordable price to help improve the quality of life for those families most in need. We also help to create employment in UK for those delivering and collecting the bags door to to door.'. Siddai Ltd appear to be based at a Hatfield address, although the company registration number they print on the leaflet is not the same one they have listed on the Companies House web-site!
Reply ID 35746
quote:How much in percentage terms actually goes to support parish and diocese (sic) in Eastern Europe? Which parts of Eastern Europe are these parish and diocese in? Given that your company was only incorporated in July of last year have you in fact made any donations yet? [?][?]
Originally posted by I.C.S.
Many thanks for your note. Siddai Ltd Company No 5875784 . On the leaflet printed company number is wrong. We are doing everything to correct this mistake as soon as possible. We`d like to note that Siddai Ltd not charity company , but with part of donated goods we are supporting parish & diocese in Eastern Europe. Best Regards I.C.S.
Reply ID 35751
Hi there, You are right,Siddai Ltd is a young company, which was established at Companies House, London 13th of July 2006.From 17th of August 2006 we have started to support St. Laurynas’ parish of Skriaudziai, in diocese of Vilkaviskis (Ramybes 8, Skriaudziai, Prienu rajonas, Lithuania). Also from 22nd of August 2006 we are supporting Caritas of Vilkaviskis’ diocese (J. Bendoriaus 3, LT-68309, Marijampole, Lithuania (Enterprise code 192071662). Since August 2006 we have donated 10-15% (of all donated goods) already . This year is the first year for as and we hope that in the near future we`ll be able to donate more. I hope i have answered in all your questions
quote:
Originally posted by Deverauxquote:How much in percentage terms actually goes to support parish and diocese (sic) in Eastern Europe? Which parts of Eastern Europe are these parish and diocese in? Given that your company was only incorporated in July of last year have you in fact made any donations yet? [?][?]
Originally posted by I.C.S.
Many thanks for your note. Siddai Ltd Company No 5875784 . On the leaflet printed company number is wrong. We are doing everything to correct this mistake as soon as possible. We`d like to note that Siddai Ltd not charity company , but with part of donated goods we are supporting parish & diocese in Eastern Europe. Best Regards I.C.S.
Reply ID 35754
I'm sorry, this really annoys me. 10-15% is a very low 'donation', and is misleading for people in this country who are used to charity collections where they go straight to named charities.
Reply ID 35756
quote:Agreed, and what I wonder about is the bit that says that the support for Lithuania is in the form of donations of donated goods? Personal experience tells me that this practice helps no one - by the time the donated clothes arrive at their destination they are often fit only for the bin. Sadly, this just means that the recipients are saddled with the job of disposing of the stuff. This company are simply making money out of people's generosity
Originally posted by Jo S
I'm sorry, this really annoys me. 10-15% is a very low 'donation', and is misleading for people in this country who are used to charity collections where they go straight to named charities.
Reply ID 35757
So what happens to the other 85-90%?
Reply ID 35759
quote:We are young company. We are not charity company. We have to sell some of the things that we collect to pay for flayers and bags, warehouse lease and to pay the people who are distributing flayers and collecting bags. Anyway - we are supporting people who most of all need social support Did you have checked other companies ? No comments more. Thank you
Originally posted by Steve
So what happens to the other 85-90%?
Reply ID 35760
What on earth have other companies got to do with it? Your confirmation that you are NOT a charity company simply proves the point that we are making. This is especially true given your marketing strategy which would appear to play heavily on your support for under priviledged children and their parents! There is nothing wrong per se with genuine charities running businesses to make a profit to further their aims and objectives - Oxfam, Isabel Hospice and Help the Aged are all good examples of what can be achieved. BUT - and here's the difference - ALL of the profit they make goes to support their charitable aims.
Reply ID 35763
quote:If you want to help those in need, start a charity and be honest about it. What you're doing is profiting from the misfortune of others. The fact that you'd prefer not to answer any more questions simply confirms what many people suspect - that you're not prepared to be accountable.
Originally posted by I.C.S.
We are young company. We are not charity company. We have to sell some of the things that we collect to pay for flayers and bags, warehouse lease and to pay the people who are distributing flayers and collecting bags. Anyway - we are supporting people who most of all need social support Did you have checked other companies ? No comments more. Thank you
Reply ID 35766
quote:So you don't speak english very well and you only give a tiny portion to charity. Am I supposed to warm to the idea? Steve, whatever you do, don't close this down. It serves as a good reminder to honest people what they should avoid.
Originally posted by I.C.S.quote:We are young company. We are not charity company. We have to sell some of the things that we collect to pay for flayers and bags, warehouse lease and to pay the people who are distributing flayers and collecting bags. Anyway - we are supporting people who most of all need social support Did you have checked other companies ? No comments more. Thank you
Originally posted by Steve
So what happens to the other 85-90%?
Reply ID 35784
quote:I don't warm to this company either, but not because they don't speak English very well. What a bizarre thing to say [B)]
Originally posted by Dudequote:So you don't speak english very well and you only give a tiny portion to charity. Am I supposed to warm to the idea? Steve, whatever you do, don't close this down. It serves as a good reminder to honest people what they should avoid.
Originally posted by I.C.S.quote:We are young company. We are not charity company. We have to sell some of the things that we collect to pay for flayers and bags, warehouse lease and to pay the people who are distributing flayers and collecting bags. Anyway - we are supporting people who most of all need social support Did you have checked other companies ? No comments more. Thank you
Originally posted by Steve
So what happens to the other 85-90%?
Reply ID 35785
A wish to help for others people is so bad? 10-15% not our goal , this is just beginning of our work. We`ll make every endeavour to win your respect . Thanks for all your comments and advice. I want to say thanks for all people who are donating . P.S. I don`t speak English very well [:I],but i am trying to learn[:)]
Reply ID 35793
quote:I think you misunderstood my commnent. [:)] I was illuding to the fact that last couple of clothing scams originated out of Eastern Europe, and also tried giving a "portion" of takings to charity. It sounds all too familiar.
Originally posted by Jo S I don't warm to this company either, but not because they don't speak English very well. What a bizarre thing to say [B)]
Reply ID 36218
Another one this morning. GENERAL L&D WARDSHIP Ltd. Comapny reg: 5477636 (not checked it yet) Third World Clothing Collection - DVD Players are one of the items requested.
Reply ID 36225
quote:Looks dodgy, registered in June 2005 as "Agents in Textiles, Footwear etc", and address as what looks like a residential In Ilford.
Originally posted by Tigger
Another one this morning. GENERAL L&D WARDSHIP Ltd. Comapny reg: 5477636 (not checked it yet) Third World Clothing Collection - DVD Players are one of the items requested.
Reply ID 36227
If you look carefully on any of these "leaflets" that come through the door, usually, somewhere near the bottom, in smaller print they say they are a company - not a charity. I always give to the Isobel House Hospice, Red Cross or Scope, the overwhelming view on this topic is that its not those who need the help who are getting it, the clothes are being sent goodness knows where and I doubt anyone really is benefitting, I think people know where to donate their unwanted clothes... and recycle the leaflet to make hamster bedding!!!! [:D]
Reply ID 36231
quote:Just checked the leaflet before it becomes hamster bedding..... No mention of being a Company not a Charity. Also they require Underwear! OK! Cosmetics, CD's, Video's, Perfumes, to name but a few. Would think clean water and food would be a more appropriate way of supporting a third world community.
Originally posted by Drama Queen
If you look carefully on any of these "leaflets" that come through the door, usually, somewhere near the bottom, in smaller print they say they are a company - not a charity. I always give to the Isobel House Hospice, Red Cross or Scope, the overwhelming view on this topic is that its not those who need the help who are getting it, the clothes are being sent goodness knows where and I doubt anyone really is benefitting, I think people know where to donate their unwanted clothes... and recycle the leaflet to make hamster bedding!!!! [:D]
Reply ID 36234
As always, please inform Trading Standards on 01992 555555
Reply ID 36235
quote:Maybe they are suggesting wonderbras are all the rage in Darfur. Support the third world.
Originally posted by Tiggerquote:Also they require Underwear! OK! Would think clean water and food would be a more appropriate way of supporting a third world community.
Originally posted by Drama Queen
If you look carefully on any of these "leaflets" that come through the door, usually, somewhere near the bottom, in smaller print they say they are a company - not a charity. I always give to the Isobel House Hospice, Red Cross or Scope, the overwhelming view on this topic is that its not those who need the help who are getting it, the clothes are being sent goodness knows where and I doubt anyone really is benefitting, I think people know where to donate their unwanted clothes... and recycle the leaflet to make hamster bedding!!!! [:D]
Reply ID 36244
Feel a bit of a pillock - whilst ringing trading standards I realised it has a Company Reg, not Charity. But still dodgy as far I feel. I apologise if these guy's are doing a good job for the Third World but there are other Charities that would ensure that these goods do make a difference. The margins do seem small. What do they do with the DVD Players and Mobile 'Phones then?
Reply ID 36245
Don't apologise, I always think if it smells like fish, looks like fish, tastes like fish - chances are it is fish.. so if you're unsure of its validity, get the experts to check it out - that's what they're there for. For anyone who thinks that starving, short of water or people in a natural disaster ie an earthquake need perfume to help them survive.. I might have an answer for them! I still think the big charities - Oxfam - Christian Aid and the like get to heart of things and doesn't it say something that there seem to be more and more of these "odd" organisations sending us flyers telling us they need our old clothes etc.. If you're in doubt you know what to do......
Reply ID 36345
quote:And also the Charity Commission if you can be bothered.
Originally posted by Steve
As always, please inform Trading Standards on 01992 555555
Reply ID 40630
I've got a petition running to shut down clothing scam companies http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ClothesScams/ I would like you all to sign it !
Reply ID 40635
quote:It doesn't work like that. Whenever such schemes come to light, they will be commented on, checked out, researched at Companies House and if possible, quizzed directly on their activities. You are not the first to come under unfavourable scrutiny and you won't be the last.
Originally posted by I.C.S.quote:We are young company. We are not charity company. We have to sell some of the things that we collect to pay for flayers and bags, warehouse lease and to pay the people who are distributing flayers and collecting bags. Anyway - we are supporting people who most of all need social support Did you have checked other companies ? No comments more. Thank you
Originally posted by Steve
So what happens to the other 85-90%?
Reply ID 40659
I've opened a page on Siddai Ltd if they're doing charity work I'm happy to report on it otherwise ... http://recycledart.org/drupal-5.0-rc1/Siddai+Ltd+%22Door2door+original+second+hand+clothes+collector+and+exporter.%22
Reply ID 40671
quote:Kate Thanks for this I hadn't noticed this post before. I will be reproducing the text of the leaflet you've quoted on my website - do you want acknowledgement / credit ? In trying to establish whether a company is trying to scam people by implying that they are in some way doing charitable work getting the wording they give out is very important, because there are are companies who are doing clothes collection/recycling as a business without implying charity work in any way, if they can do it and presumably make a profit why can't the rest ? Why don't all businesses make out they're helping charity in order to promote profit ? The answer is that charities are not doing all kinds of business, but they are doing clothes collections, good thing too. Because charities are doing this kind of work, scam companies try to fool people into thinking they are charities too. Fair warning - International Children Support (Siddai Ltd) will shortly going into my list of scam companies along with Helpmates Limited unless I hear anything to the contrary. As someone from Siddai Ltd appears to be on this list here's my offer - tell me what you're doing for charity and I'll give you a page detailing what you do. Can't say fairer than that a free web page of publicity. http://recycledart.org/drupal-5.0-rc1/Siddai+Ltd+%22Door2door+original+second+hand+clothes+collector+and+exporter.%22
Originally posted by Kate
They're back. This time it's International Children Support, and like the one above they are bringing God into it: 'God said - 'Give to others and you will be given'. However, the small print goes onto explain that 'Siddai Ltd is a collecting company, which was established to provide essential support for underprivileged children and their parents. We achieve our aim by supplying items such as clothing, bedding to charities and pure villages' parishes in Eastern Europe or selling them for affordable price to help improve the quality of life for those families most in need. We also help to create employment in UK for those delivering and collecting the bags door to to door.'. Siddai Ltd appear to be based at a Hatfield address, although the company registration number they print on the leaflet is not the same one they have listed on the Companies House web-site!
Reply ID 40672
quote:Link not working
Originally posted by parabiodox
I've opened a page on Siddai Ltd if they're doing charity work I'm happy to report on it otherwise ... http://recycledart.org/drupal-5.0-rc1/Siddai+Ltd+%22Door2door+original+second+hand+clothes+collector+and+exporter.%22
Reply ID 40675
quote:It is now, sorry. A problem for me is that these companies do not tend to advertise on the internet so I'm reliant on people quoting the contents of leaflets they hand out. But I am being quite honest about Siddai Ltd and Helpmates Ltd if they can show how they are doing charitable work, or if they receive any favourable independent quotes I am more than happy to reproduce them. If a company says they are doing charitable work and I can't find any evidence of it, then I'm afraid I think I'm well within my rights to assume the worse. Don't forget the petition ! http://recycledart.org/drupal-5.0-rc1/Siddai+Ltd+%22Door2door+original+second+hand+clothes+collector+and+exporter.%22
Originally posted by Stevequote:Link not working
Originally posted by parabiodox
I've opened a page on Siddai Ltd if they're doing charity work I'm happy to report on it otherwise ... http://recycledart.org/drupal-5.0-rc1/Siddai+Ltd+%22Door2door+original+second+hand+clothes+collector+and+exporter.%22
Reply ID 40676
quote:No acknowledgement necessary. Good luck with your efforts on this. The biggest annoyance for me is that they are taking away from genuine charities, and that the wording on their leaflets is clearly designed to con people into thinking they are donating to genuine charities.
Originally posted by parabiodox Kate Thanks for this I hadn't noticed this post before. I will be reproducing the text of the leaflet you've quoted on my website - do you want acknowledgement / credit ?
Reply ID 43356
Despite my website collapsing resulting in the loss of almost all my search listings, the 'Shut Clothing Scam Companies Down Petition' goes from strength to strength. It currently has 98 signatures. The activities of these clothing scam companies appears to be increasing, or at least the reporting of them has, pass the word - Sign the Petition ! http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/ClothesScams/ I am now maintaining a list of clothing scam companies, and will follow up on any mention of these companies on message boards such as this. (Anyone heard anything of Siddai Ltd. for instance, or did this board nip them in the bud ?) I am very much reliant on boards such as this for information on these companies (as are a lot of other people) so keep posting !
Reply ID 43752
There's an interesting article in last Saturday's Guardian on this subject [url="http://society.guardian.co.uk/voluntary/story/0,,2150919,00.html"]The great charity collection scam[/url]
Reply ID 44874
I had a leaflet through my door today which is a registered charity, but it somehow doesn't all ring true. It asks for clothes etc. for 'The Children's Welfare Foundation', stating 'Our project for 20078 is to provide help and support for terminally ill babies and their families. We urgently need your help to support these poorly babies at this difficult time.'. When I put their charity number (1113250) into the Charity Commission's web-site it came up with an address in Lancashire, and a website on which the only details are the leaflet text! http://www.childrenwelfarefoundation.org.uk Has anyone heard of them? Am I just being overly suspicious?
Reply ID 44875
The grammar and spelling is pretty poor on the website. It looks like it was put together by someone whose first language isn't English.
Reply ID 44876
Given the bad English on the site, I would be very suspicious. The site is registered to a company called Fortune Eximports Ltd, whose address is listed as Unit No.5, Shuttleworth Road, Elms Industrial Farms Estate, Bedford. This recent item in The Guardian about the "charity" makes interesting reading: http://money.guardian.co.uk/weekly/story/0,,2141132,00.html
Reply ID 44877
quote:And guess which company is listed at the bottom of the leaflet as collecting the donations 'on behalf of the charity'? Yes, it's Fortune International Ltd, of 5 Shuttleworth Road, Bedford!
Originally posted by Steve
Given the bad English on the site, I would be very suspicious. The site is registered to a company called Fortune Eximports Ltd, whose address is listed as Unit No.5, Shuttleworth Road, Elms Industrial Farms Estate, Bedford.
Reply ID 44878
And there is further interesting reading here: http://www.recycledart.org/node/8 In short.........it doesn't appear to be reputable organisation.
Reply ID 44881
quote:Agreed - what does it take to get this website closed down? It's a .co.uk registration - is there any regulatory body??
Originally posted by Kate
time.'. http://www.childrenwelfarefoundation.org.uk Has anyone heard of them? Am I just being overly suspicious?
Reply ID 44882
I had a plastic sack put through my door last week from the British Heart Foundation, I gave them clothing etc. but before he took it away I asked for some ID, the driver said this part of Hertfordshire does not have too much problem with people taking the bags, but he was pleased I asked, he said only a hand full of people question him, he wishes more people did! The worse place for bags to go missing in Essex and Kent, they have to pick them up before 8am if not they have all disappeared! I have had leaftlet and bags put through from the afore mentioned, I just bin them!
Reply ID 44885
I had another leaflet though my door tonight.. went in the recycling.
Reply ID 44887
they never pick up the empty plastic bags though!
Reply ID 44891
quote:Yes. The Charity Commission.
Originally posted by Deverauxquote:Agreed - what does it take to get this website closed down? It's a .co.uk registration - is there any regulatory body??
Originally posted by Kate
time.'. http://www.childrenwelfarefoundation.org.uk Has anyone heard of them? Am I just being overly suspicious?
Reply ID 44892
quote:I think Devereaux means a regulatory body for UK domain names or web hosting. Unfortunately, the company that hosts the website is based in India.
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Yes. The Charity Commission.
Originally posted by Deverauxquote:Agreed - what does it take to get this website closed down? It's a .co.uk registration - is there any regulatory body??
Originally posted by Kate
time.'. http://www.childrenwelfarefoundation.org.uk Has anyone heard of them? Am I just being overly suspicious?
Reply ID 47311
I just got a "Children's Welfare Foundation" leaflet through my Bengeo door again today... collecting Thursday. I've received countless of these leaflets through my door this last year or two. Most of them in the last few months from "Children's Welfare Foundation" (2 separate visits in the last few weeks even, clearly trying to milk the Christmas goodwill!). Plenty of bad press about these people on the web (as links in this thread already mention)... http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2007/aug/04/moneysupplement3 These are money making schemes designed to exploit generous individuals, run by profit making businesses! As profit making businesses, these collectors will go to the area of the country that provides the best return of clothes/goods for outlay of leaflets and drivers time.... for them to be "trolling" Hertford so frequently suggests that they get a good haul from here on each visit... so they keep coming back. We are clearly too welcoming! This means that there is a issue of awareness. People in Hertford need to be made more aware of these scams. If they got no goods, they wouldn't come back. They can't afford to print leaflets for no return, so not giving and telling you friends and neighbours too, is the best way to stop them coming back. Is anyone good at writing researched articles? Maybe we could get all the local papers to print warning articles about this (something useful for a change!). If you get one of these leaflets, please ignore it (or better report it to trading standards on 01992 555555), then take your clothes and goods to a well known charity shop instead, OR save it for one of the legitimate charity's door-to-door collections. Don't let these scams put you off being generous to genuine charities... they need more help than ever these days. Hope this helps.
Reply ID 47312
The 'Childrens Welfare Foundation' claims to have its collections made by Fortune International Ltd in Bedford. Found this after a bit of Googling [url]http://www.fortuneeximports.com/AboutUs/CompanyProfile/tabid/68/Default.aspx[/url] Not a mention of charity on their site though but lots of talk of exporting and selling!
Reply ID 47318
I've only just found this thread, but we had a Lairatex leaflet through our door some months ago and the b****** stole the money we'd left out for the milk! Intriguingly, I've just googled 'Lairatex' and the first two links were to this very forum!
Reply ID 47326
I'm not sure of the protocol of the way this forum works (being new here), but maybe we should start a new thread entitled "Children's Welfare Foundation - BEWARE" (or some such), as that seems to be the big hitter in Hertford at the moment. I didn't start a new thread as you were clearly already discussing that theme here already... however, if the Hertford public need educating, and have never heard of Ambertop, then they might not come into this thread,whereas they might be thinking about leaving clothes for CWF as we speak... and a thread title might catch their eye! The other way might be to change the name of the thread title to match the latest threat each time (although that is neat, it also makes finding the old thread difficult under it's ever changing name! ... and needs an Admin to help out each time). Anyone know what would be preferred by the Forum Hosts? Would a new thread be tolerated by the moderators, to help warn people away from Children's Welfare Foundation (linked to this one too of course for it's wider educational purposes). Just hoping that less people give this time!
Reply ID 47331
Interesting thread. We've had a leaflet through the door from the Children's Welfare Foundation which I was all set to bin as with all of the other "charity" collection leaflets but then I noticed that there was in fact a registered charity number on there so I thought it was legit. On reading this thread, I'm now not so sure and so am wondering whether to recommend to Mrs Hertfordian that we don't leave our unwanted clothing items out for collection. FWIW - the charity number shown is 1113250. Any views please? (and Happy New Year as well!)
Reply ID 47334
quote:As they are currently being investigated by the Charities Commission I would personally not give to them. If you have spare clothes just take them to your local charity shop.
Originally posted by hertfordian
Interesting thread. We've had a leaflet through the door from the Children's Welfare Foundation which I was all set to bin as with all of the other "charity" collection leaflets but then I noticed that there was in fact a registered charity number on there so I thought it was legit. On reading this thread, I'm now not so sure and so am wondering whether to recommend to Mrs Hertfordian that we don't leave our unwanted clothing items out for collection. FWIW - the charity number shown is 1113250. Any views please? (and Happy New Year as well!)
Reply ID 47985
New clothing begging leaflet today from a company called Polotex Ltd. I suspect they are as bad as the others. They don't claim to be a charity, just a company. "Your donations are sent to the third world countries to help clothe the poor". Of course they are SOLD to the third world, not given. They are a company like any other designed to make money... of course many people give to organisations like this because the emotive language on the leaflets always imply a charitable cause, worthy of being given too. The small print says it all though. Please don't give to these companies. Save you clothes for the genuine charities leaflets, or drop them into your favourite local charity shop. Mike
Reply ID 47995
quote:They will be a rag merchant. A lot of legitimate charity shops use rag merchants to take away the clothes that they can't sell (ripped, dirty etc), and they then export them. This is an established system that has worked for years, but the time to worry is when rag merchants collect directly from people as then the charity shops miss out.
Originally posted by Leo Densian
The 'Childrens Welfare Foundation' claims to have its collections made by Fortune International Ltd in Bedford. Found this after a bit of Googling
Reply ID 48243
quote:See P29 of today's Mirror - tells you all you need to know about the Childrens Welfare Foundation (yet to file any accounts) and the collection company. Just found this link [url]http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/investigates/2008/01/24/charity-clothing-collecting-scam-revealed-89520-20296069/[/url]
Originally posted by Jo Squote:They will be a rag merchant. A lot of legitimate charity shops use rag merchants to take away the clothes that they can't sell (ripped, dirty etc), and they then export them. This is an established system that has worked for years, but the time to worry is when rag merchants collect directly from people as then the charity shops miss out.
Originally posted by Leo Densian
The 'Childrens Welfare Foundation' claims to have its collections made by Fortune International Ltd in Bedford. Found this after a bit of Googling
Reply ID 48244
Interesting read, thanks. I really wish the Mercury would run a story on this, as these leaflets continue to come through the letterbox, and it's clearly a big issue in Hertford. I also receive a ridiculous number of plastic sacks from a range of charities, and despite their appeal to put out empty sacks for collection, they are virtually never picked up. I do wonder how this system really works in terms of benefitting the charities in the maximum way, and if there's a commercial angle to it.
Reply ID 48249
quote:I agree entirely!! I don't think we've ever had any of these empty bags picked up and we always religiously put them out when requested (and leave them there for several day until Mrs. N starts grumbling [;)])
Originally posted by Kate I also receive a ridiculous number of plastic sacks from a range of charities, and despite their appeal to put out empty sacks for collection, they are virtually never picked up.
Reply ID 48250
And lo and behold, what just came through my door this second? A collection leaflet from the "Children's Welfare Foundation". It seems they do indeed want to help terminally ill babies this year...[:(!]
Reply ID 48251
I've recently put out bags for the British Heart Foundation & GOSH and they have been collected before I've left for work.
Reply ID 50989
It's not clear from this article, but I wonder if this new Act will legally require the leaflets and bags put through the door to spell out how much money is being taken by any company involved. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7317419.stm
Reply ID 51164
I now collect all my junk mail and put it back in the post box. I sure as hell am not going to use up my precious space in my green box with crap I didn't use or ask for.
Reply ID 55085
quote:The so called "charity" number 1113250 has been registered for two years without submitting any accounts and has the most implausible claim "helping everyone everywhere in the world..". Despite numberous complaints the charity commission still list them. It seems that there is no need to fabicate a charity number - just apply for one and you get listed!
Originally posted by Jo S
I used to work for a national umbrella body for charity shops and this is a huge problem for genuine charities, it costs them millions each year. As a good rule of thumb, if the charity isn't a household name, or a well-known local charity don't fill the bag and, if you can be bothered, you could contact the Charity Commission (I don't expect anyone to be bothered enough to do that though [;)]). This is a huge industry, with collectors coming from Eastern Europe and further, to profit from it. It's cos it's so hard to police and the fact that no serious police time is going to be given to this that they know they can get away with it. Makes me very annoyed [B)], of all the people to steal from you'd think charities wouldn't be very high on people's agendas.
Reply ID 55191
Hi I have just had a charity bag in a white plastic evelope put through my door 16,Sept,08 with a collection bag inside and it reads DO NOT DELAY on top then it says clothing collection for breast cancer prevention programme and the fine print reads http://www.donotdelay.org and email [email protected] but I cannot see any charity number, please can some one confirm is this a charity or some scammer?
Reply ID 55192
quote:It's not a UK charity - the domain name is registered at an address in Vilnius and the website is promoting Breast Cancer Awareness in Lithuania. I would be suspicious.
Originally posted by night owl
Hi I have just had a charity bag in a white plastic evelope put through my door 16,Sept,08 with a collection bag inside and it reads DO NOT DELAY on top then it says clothing collection for breast cancer prevention programme and the fine print reads http://www.donotdelay.org and email [email protected] but I cannot see any charity number, please can some one confirm is this a charity or some scammer?
Reply ID 55193
Night Owl, i have never heard of them. I have just e-mailed them asking for there charity number. I too have one of their bags.
Reply ID 55194
Hi thanks for your answers they will not be getting anything from me but the envelope bag that they have used looks like it is from a breast cancer charity as it shows a pink ribbon, so I am now wondering how many people will be fooled by this and should this company be reported?
Reply ID 55195
http://www.basildon.gov.uk/Website2/newsroom.nsf/PR30/FA776D13DAEDF38D802572B20056AD47?OpenDocument http://www.basildon.gov.uk/Website2/newsroom.nsf/PR30/FA776D13DAEDF38D802572B20056AD47?OpenDocument I'd be tempted to leave the bag out with something unpleasant inside
Reply ID 55196
Hi Steve I was thinking the same thing as the other half suffers from incontinents but the bag is a bit big to fill with her knickers[}:)], still I have sent Breast Cancer who use the pink ribbon an email telling them about this but I am still wondering if the police should be informed?[:D]As they are due to collect this Thursday 18,Sept
quote:
Originally posted by Steve
http://www.basildon.gov.uk/Website2/newsroom.nsf/PR30/FA776D13DAEDF38D802572B20056AD47?OpenDocument http://www.basildon.gov.uk/Website2/newsroom.nsf/PR30/FA776D13DAEDF38D802572B20056AD47?OpenDocument I'd be tempted to leave the bag out with something unpleasant inside
Reply ID 55204
quote:Oh, I got one of those but I have to say I was fooled by the pink ribbon and it didn't even cross my mind it was dubious. I'm usually the first to assume something is dodgy... [:I]
Originally posted by night owl
so I am now wondering how many people will be fooled by this and should this company be reported?
Reply ID 55222
Reply recived today... Thank you for contacting us. Intersecond Ltd is the authorized agent for Public Institution “Azzara” (Registration No. 124013046) in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Intersecond Ltd is responsible for the collection of unwanted clothes used to finance the "Do not delay!" project – an important project that provides information and screenings for women in Lithuania to help prevent breast cancer. For more about the project please visit the website: http://www.donotdelay.org
Reply ID 55224
Humm so on further investigation they are not registered with either the charities commision or companies house.