Keech Hospice Care, a charity based in Bedfordshire, has reported a significant drop in donations to its 17 shops across Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, and Milton Keynes, attributing the decline to an increase in doorstep collections by rag trade collectors. The charity estimates it is losing up to £5,000 a week.
Philip Kojcinovic, retail manager at Keech, stated that collectors distribute sacks through doors, paying only nominal amounts to the charities whose branding they use. Chief executive Mike Keel emphasised the impact, noting the charity must raise £5 million annually to sustain its services. He urged the public to read the small print, as not all doorstep collections benefit charities.
The British Heart Foundation reported similar losses, with £1.2 million lost in 2008/09, rising to £3 million in 2009/10, and an expected further loss of over £3 million this financial year due to an 18% drop in household collection returns since April 2010.
Clothes Aid, a leading clothing collection agent, defended its practices, stating it complies with all UK Charity Commission regulations and has raised £3.15 million for charities and NHS trusts. The company guarantees a minimum annual amount to partner charities and provides a steady revenue stream.
Clothes Aid has collaborated with the Charity Commission and the Department for Social Development to produce a guide helping householders identify legitimate charity collections. Rosie Chapman, Director of Policy and Effectiveness at the Charity Commission, stressed the importance of informed giving amid the surge in doorstep collections.
