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Locals urged to be wary of bogus charity collectors

Tuesday, 15 September 2009

A LEADING children’s charity has issued a warning to Northside residents to be on alert for bogus collectors after reports of a group operating in the Malahide and Portmarnock areas. In a sinister development, it has been brought to the attention of Barnardos that a small number of fraudsters have been passing themselves off as collectors for the charity. The group is reported to have made off with sums of cash after tricking unsuspecting locals. Barnardos is appealing to people to be on the look out for these fakes. The people concerned have been collecting door to door in residential and commercial areas claiming they are collecting money on behalf of Barnardos for a sponsored walk.   However, Barnardos said it does not encourage their fundraisers to collect door to door. The charity is advising members of the public that if they are unsure as to whether the fundraiser is legitimate, they should ask for identification and a letter of authentication, which is provided to genuine fundraisers. A spokeswoman for Barnardos told Northside People: “We do not send people door to door for collections so if you are in doubt, ask to see a letter that we give to all of our collectors to verify they are legitimate. “If you want to be sure, you can also call our office where we have a list of all of the people who are raising money for us. “People should remain vigilant to ensure they don’t end up donating to a false cause.” Members of the public are encouraged to contact Barnardos on 1850222300 where the Barnardos fundraising team holds a list of active fundraisers who have registered with them. In addition, any on-street collectors should have a Garda permit from their local gardai. The children’s charity is asking for anyone who notices suspicious activity to immediately report it to their local gardai and to Barnardos. Barnardos carries out important work supporting children whose wellbeing is under threat.