Residents in North Swindon, Wiltshire, are being warned about fake clothing donation banks appearing at local community sites as of 23 March 2026. Haydon Wick Parish Councillor Leigh Jackson issued the alert after two unauthorised bins were found at the Haydon Centre. Site operator GLL, which has managed leisure facilities in the area since an agreement extension in 2024, confirmed the banks were placed without permission next to official collection points.
The suspect banks lack charity names, registration numbers, or contact details, which are required for legitimate organisations. These bins have been taped up and reported for removal, with one unit causing a safety risk by blocking a fire exit. Similar unauthorised banks have also been spotted at local businesses in the town, including the Shield and Dagger and Manor Farm pubs.
Official donation points supporting the Wiltshire Air Ambulance have raised nearly £75,000 across the county over the past year. In contrast, scam companies often sell donated items on the internet or drive them abroad for personal profit. These groups exploit public generosity, leading to lost donations for local services and increased distrust among neighbours in the community.
Residents are being reminded to check for official branding and charity registration details before donating any items. According to the House of Commons Library, proper clothing banks will always clearly show who they are raising money for and how to contact the organisation. People are encouraged to use established sites to ensure their donations benefit the intended causes.
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