West Berkshire Council urges vigilance when recycling textiles

West Berkshire Council is urging residents to responsibly recycle textiles by donating saleable clothing items to charity shops or by using registered charity collection banks or Council-provided collection points across the district.

The emergence of several unaffiliated textile banks across the district are being investigated due to suspected false claims that they 'support people in need.' Clothing banks spotted in Milton Keynes and Northampton in the past have shown some containers were owned by a limited company and not a charity.

It's important landowners and the public are aware about these potentially misleading clothes banks, as clothing and shoes deposited in such containers may not benefit charitable causes or be disposed of in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Cllr Stuart Gourley, Executive Member for Climate Action, Recycling and Biodiversity at West Berkshire Council, said:

"Responsible recycling, particularly through legitimate textile recycling banks, is vital for a sustainable future and helps combat fly-tipping, an issue that harms our environment and communities.

"By supporting authentic charity textile banks, we engage in a cycle that benefits both the planet and those in need. It's crucial to ensure our donations go to genuine causes, reinforcing our commitment to responsible recycling and supporting real charitable efforts. Together, we can make a significant impact on both our community and the wider world."

Residents wishing to donate unwanted clothes and shoes are advised to look for textile banks affiliated with reputable charities such as the local Air Ambulance, Newbury Cancer Trust, and Salvation Army. These banks should be clearly marked with a registered charity number, which can be verified on the charity register.

Additionally, we provide textile collection points at our Mini Recycling Centres, Household Waste Recycling Centres, and as part of our kerbside recycling collection service.

If you are unsure about your donation, it's always best to check first. Call the charity shop first to make sure they have space and ensure your donations are clean and functional. Charity shops thrive on selling items to give them a second life. For textile items, use collection banks, where they will be sorted for reuse or recycling.