SEVENOAKS - Fly-Tipping and Charity Donations

Last month, local Sevenoaks beat officer dealt with two incidents involving the theft of charity donations left outside shops in Sevenoaks. In both cases, the individuals responsible were identified and dealt with proactively through local resolution.

This week, Sevenoaks beat officer officer arrested a further male in connection with multiple thefts, one of which involved items left outside a charity shop in the town centre. The individual has since been convicted at court.

These incidents highlight a growing concern around donations being left outside charity shops outside of business hours.

Crime Prevention Advice – Fly-Tipping and Charity Donations

While donations to charity shops are greatly appreciated, I would urge residents to only donate during business hours. Leaving items outside shops when they are closed:

Encourages theft and anti-social behaviour

Can result in items being damaged by weather

Creates a public nuisance and is considered fly-tipping

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, fly-tipping is a criminal offence. Offenders can face fixed penalty notices, or prosecution with fines of up to £50,000 or 12 months imprisonment in Magistrates’ Court.

Some charity shops have reported that damaged items must be disposed of at their own cost, placing further strain on their resources.

Please help support our local charity shops and keep Sevenoaks clean and safe by donating responsibly during business hours.