Statement from St Albans District Council

Charity collectors working in the St Albans District will know exactly what is expected of them following a revision of the licensing rules.

St Albans City & District Council has amended the policy for the issuing of permits for street and house-to-house collections of money and clothing.

Parish Councils and Neighbourhood Watch schemes are being informed of the changes and told how to report any concerns about collectors to the Council.

Any member of the public who is concerned whether or not a collection is genuine can call the Council on 01727 819254.

The new policy is designed to ensure fund-raisers are donating the maximum amount possible to charity and that no personal or commercial profit is being made.

Permits for house-to-house clothing collections will normally be granted where it is shown that all of the profits are being given to charity.

It is hoped the changes will maintain the reputations of local and national charities operating in the District and bolster public confidence in their fund-raising activities.

The full policy, passed by the Licensing and Regulatory Committee, can be found on the Council’s website, http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/business/BusinessLicences/OnStreet/charity-collection-licences/.

The Council issued around 250 to 300 charity street collection licences in 2014 and cooperates with around 10 textile recycling companies engaged by charities.

There are currently 44 national charities that hold a National Exemption Order, excusing them from the need for a house-to-house collection licence.