Fraud alert as charity names are hijacked

The bags are designed for people to donate their unwanted clothes, shoes, and other items, which are then collected at the roadside, often to raise money for charity.

Meningitis Now today made it clear that it does not raise funds through schemes such as these; there is no agreement in place with any company to collect unwanted goods on its behalf.

It is not the only charity who has been affected by this, as its logo sits alongside other charities on these fraudulent bags, including bibic, which supports children and young people with disabilities and learning difficulties.

Stephen Service, policy manager at the Fundraising Regulator said: “While many clothing collections are legitimate, charity bag fraud is an increasingly common problem which makes victims of donors and charities alike. If in doubt, check with your local council directly before you give to ensure the collection is licensed.”

Tom Nutt, CEO of Meningitis Now, said: “I would like to make it clear that these bags are fraudulent and nothing to do with Meningitis Now – please do not make any donations in this way.”