main content Misleading clothing collections

Bromley Trading Standards are warning residents to view with caution leaflets from organisations appearing to collect unwanted clothing for the benefit of people in poorer countries.

Some do not donate any money to worthy causes, but simply sell the items at boot fairs or in ordinary shops as normal over-the-counter goods either in this country or abroad.

Clive Davison, Head of Bromley’s Trading Standards said: “There is no reason why people should not dispose of unwanted clothes in this way, but for those who want their donations to generate funds for charities, we advise that they look for collections by registered charities giving their full name and number on their literature.”

Trading Standards also advise residents to leave the sacks out only on the day of collection. Unscrupulous dealers have been known to go around a day ahead of charity collectors and pick up the sacks. If in doubt, only give to recognisable charities or take the items to local charity shops.

Anyone receiving a flyer through their door can forward it to the Trading Standards team at Bromley Council, Civic Centre, Stockwell Close, Bromley, BR1 3UH where the information will be collated and followed up.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

This warning has been prompted by complaints about Ambertop Ltd a company recently advertising clothing collection in Bromley. Trading Standards’ investigations have revealed that the company was dissolved last year and is not contactable through the information given on their literature. 


For media enquiries, please contact Susie Clark, Communications Officer, on 020 8461 7911, or email susie.clark@bromley.gov.uk