Check before making a donation warns former army major

A former major in The Black Watch has sounded a warning over “questionable” charities collecting for veterans.

Ronnie Proctor said collection methods have been described as “quite pushy, and bordering on aggressive”.

Mr Proctor, an Angus councillor who sits on a number of forces-related charities, is urging people to “check the charity” before making a donation.

He said: “There are a number of bona fide military charities who do fantastic work in Scotland such as PoppyScotland, Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes among others.

“However, I am becoming concerned at reports of what I call pseudo-charities being set up which ostensibly collect money for veterans, but in reality charge up to 80% of donations for ‘management fees’.

“Worse still, their collection methods, as recently reported on TV, have been described as quite pushy, and bordering on aggressive.

“I am pleased to say that the authorities are proactively investigating some of these groups, but I would urge people to ‘check the charity’ before handing over cash.

“I would like to stress that the vast majority of charities do good and important work which makes a positive difference in the lives of those who need it, but there are one or two which are questionable.

“If you are approached to make a donation, feel free to ask questions about the charity.

“A bona fide collector will be happy to discuss the work of his or her organisation.”

Members of the public concerned about fundraising tactics can call Scottish Fundraising Complaints on 0808 164 2520.