### Swansea Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant Following Reports of Charity Donation Scam
South Wales Police have issued a public warning to residents in Morriston, Swansea, after a series of incidents involving a man allegedly pretending to collect charity donations on behalf of local businesses and not-for-profit organisations. The events, which unfolded on Tuesday, 3rd June, have left the community unsettled, with authorities ramping up efforts to reassure the public and investigate the incident.
The police confirmed that Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) have been actively patrolling the Morriston area following complaints that an individual was going door to door, soliciting donations under false pretences. Local law enforcement emphasised that their officers are focused on maintaining community safety and urged residents to remain cautious when approached by anyone requesting money for charitable causes.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police stated, “Officers received a report of unknown individuals falsely purporting to represent local businesses and requesting donations in the Morriston area. PCSOs have since been present in the area to ensure community reassurance, and an investigation into these circumstances is ongoing.” This statement underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the allegations and serves as a reminder to the public to always verify the identity of those collecting for charity at their front doors.
Surfability UK CIC, a well-known charity based in Caswell Bay, took to social media to distance itself from any involvement in these door-to-door fundraising activities. In a Facebook post, the organisation explained that members of the public had reported a man claiming to represent Surfability UK, asking locals for financial contributions. The charity clarified that they do not employ anybody to directly solicit donations at people’s homes, nor do they ever request sensitive bank details through such methods.
“We have received reports of a man in the Morriston area going door to door, claiming to represent Surfability UK and asking for donations,” the post read. “This person is not connected to us in any way. We will NEVER go door to door asking for donations or request your bank details.” The charity urged anyone who encounters such activity to contact them directly or notify the local police station without delay.
Charity scams, unfortunately, are on the rise, particularly during economic uncertainties when communities are eager to support causes close to their hearts. By capitalising on the trusted names of local organisations, fraudsters seek to exploit the goodwill of the public. This latest incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance when interacting with unsolicited visitors.
The charity’s statement also reflected their emotional response: “It deeply saddens us that someone is misusing our name to deceive and harm others. Thank you for your continued support—it means the world to us.” They also reaffirmed that the safest way to contribute to their organisation is via their official website or by visiting them in person at Caswell Bay.
Police have called for anyone with information concerning these fraudulent activities to come forward. They highlight the importance of community cooperation in tackling such deceitful acts, which can not only harm residents financially but also erode trust in legitimate charities conducting essential work locally.
South Wales Police continue their investigations and are urging residents to remain wary of unexpected callers. Anyone who is unsure about a charity collector’s legitimacy is advised to politely decline, close the door, and verify credentials directly with the organisation in question using official contact information.
As communities in Swansea and beyond strive to support vulnerable individuals and charities, authorities reiterate the need for both caution and compassion. Transparent communication between residents, local organisations, and law enforcement is vital to ensure that charitable giving remains both safe and effective for everyone involved.