PEOPLE wanting to help raise money for charity are being urged to go about it in the right way.
Stockton Borough Council's trading standards department has issued the appeal in the wake of the tsunami disaster.
The council is keen to support the raising of funds, but also wishes to ensure that donations reach their intended destinations.
People wanting to organise a collection may need permission from trading standards and the licensing service unit.
Sealed containers should be used for collections, bearing the charity's name and registration number.
Anyone who doubts the validity of a charity, can call the Charity Commission's helpline on 0870 333 0123.
Trading standards has produced a leaflet explaining the best way to collect and donate, which can be obtained from the team's office in Church Road, Stockton, or by calling (01642) 526558.
Councillor Martyn Ingram, the council's cabinet member for housing and community safety, said: "The laws around collecting money for charity are there to protect the public and make sure that donations do reach the genuine charitable cause."
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