Sir, – For some years, Liberal Democrat councillors in Stockton borough have been raising concerns about bogus charity collections, after residents have contacted them about leaflets and bags through their doors.

Some councillors have themselves received bags and letters through their doors from dubious collectors. The councillors have made reports to Stockton trading standards.

Some charities do collect in this way, but other collectors are companies working to make profit. The Association of Charity Shops estimates that they can lose up to £3m a year owing to theft and for-profit collections.

Donating to charity is a good way to get rid of unwanted items and help those in need.

However, residents can take steps to ensure that it is a genuine charity rather than a profit- making company.

Organisations which falsely claim to be a charity or collecting for a charity are acting illegally and trading standards will take action to ensure compliance with the law.

There are ways to check if a charity is genuine. These include: The leaflet or sack should say it is from a registered charity.

This can be checked. You can call 0845-3000-218 or check online at www.charitycommission.

gov.uk.

Is the leaflet poor quality or does it have spelling mistakes?

Check the phone number – don’t be afraid to phone and ask about the work they are collecting for.

Charities and collectors need permits for house-to-house collections in Stockton borough.

The trading standards department has a list of those with permits and when they can be expected to collect. This timetable can be checked online, or you can check with trading standards.

JACQUIE BELL Parliamentary spokeswoman, Stockton South Liberal Democrats