There have been recent reports of charity donation scams on campus by several members of our community. Sadly, fraudsters can take advantage of our generosity when giving to charity. Please be vigilant when invited to donate, use the following advice to help protect yourself and report any concerns.

• Verify the charity: Before donating any money in cash or by bank transfer, research the charity to confirm its legitimacy. Check for official websites, contact information, and registration details.
• Be cautious of urgent requests: Scammers often create a sense of urgency to pressure you into donating quickly using narratives like dire need. Take your time to verify the charity using an independent web search. Do not feel pressured into donating cash straight away. Make sure any online donations are going to a charitable account.
• Check ID: Scammers may pose as representatives of legitimate charities. Check the charity name and registration number at gov.uk/checkcharity. Street collectors should wear an ID badge that is clearly visible.
• Collection buckets: Any collection buckets should be sealed and undamaged. Most fundraising materials should feature a charity’s name, registration number and a landline phone number.
• Be wary if a requestor offers to accompany you to the cash point, bank, or post office for the purposes of making a transfer. Only give what you can genuinely afford.

If you have any suspicions, do not donate. Instead, report suspicious activity online at Report a crime | West Midlands Police or by calling 101.

If you are feeling pressured into making donations or have, in any other way, been affected by anything in this message, please get in touch with Report + Support, Students' Union Advice Centre or Wellbeing and Student Support.