MP supports Charity Commission against Charity Frauds
December 21, 2011 2:14 PM
Colchester MP Bob Russell is encouraging people to use the new mobile version of the Charity Commission website, making it easy for people to
check charities' details on their phone before making a donation.
The Charity Commission, the independent regulator of charities in England and Wales, has launched the site, http://m.charitycommission.gov.uk,
specifically designed for use on mobile phones. It means that when people can immediately check if an "organisation" asking for donations is a
registered charity.
Lots of charities fundraise over Christmas, and almost all charity collections are genuine. However, there are some people who will try to abuse the generosity of others for their own gain.
The mobile site, which holds the register of more than 180,000 charities, will help to give members of the public confidence that the money they donate will reach its intended destination.
As well as showing whether a charity is registered with the Charity Commission, the site includes details of what individual charities do and
where they work. It also shows contact details for registered charities, so if people are still unsure whether a collection is genuine they can contact the charity directly to find out.
The site is also useful for charity trustees, providing helpful summaries of their guidance on issues including fundraising and trading.
Mr Russell said: "At a time when charities need every penny to continue their excellent work it is sad that there are those who see giving as a means to steal or misappropriate the intention of the gift made.
"Colchester has a good record of giving, particularly to our Armed Forces charities. I therefore support the Charity Commission's initiative to ensure what we give is received by those it is intended for not to furnish crooks lavish lifestyles."
Dame Suzi Leather, Chair of the Charity Commission, added: "Many charities appeal for funds over the festive period and they currently need the public's donations more than ever. But give smartly; make sure your money is going to a genuine registered charity.
"The Charity Commission new mobile site will help you quickly check that the charity asking for your money is a proper registered charity. The site also provides useful information about individual charities so you can see what a charity will do with your money."
Dame Suzi said that in addition to double-checking details of street charity collections, she also encourages people making donations to watch out for e-mail scams and fake websites.
"If you are suspicious of any appeals for donations, always check the charity registration number on the Charity Commission site or contact the
charity directly."
Mr Bryn Parry, Chief Executive and Co-Founder of Help for Heroes, said: "This is a fantastic initiative that will certainly reassure supporters that
their hard-earned money is going exactly where it should.
"During the Christmas period it is so important to remember those that are going through a tough time, and anything that makes charitable giving a safer, more straightforward process is welcomed by Help for Heroes."
The Charity Commission's tips to avoid charity scams this Christmas
1) If you are in any doubt about a charity collector, collection bag or fundraising materials, check the charity's name and registration
number. You can find these on the Charity Commission's website at www.charitycommission.gov.uk, or on the mobile version of the site http:/
/m.charitycommission.gov.uk.
2) Always check whether a collector is wearing a proper ID badge.
3) Check that the collecting tin seal is not damaged.
4) Ask the collector for more information - a genuine charity should be happy to answer questions.
5) Check whether a collector has authority to collect. A Permit or Licence is usually needed if raising money in a public place. Collections in private places like train stations and supermarkets need the owner's or manager's permission. Collections in public houses need either a Licence or an Exemption.
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats