Shoppers in Weymouth are being warned to stay vigilant after allegations emerged that a group collecting money outside Morrisons under the banner “Homeless in Need UK” may have been exploiting the generosity of the public while giving only a tiny fraction of donations to genuine charitable causes.
Concern was first raised by local residents who claimed the collectors were presenting themselves as helping homeless veterans while aggressively soliciting donations from unsuspecting shoppers. Anger quickly spread online after one resident alleged they had contacted several organisations, including the Walter Mitty Hunters Club, and were told the operation was widely regarded as suspicious.
The accusations prompted outrage from members of the local community, many of whom said they had already handed over cash believing they were supporting vulnerable former servicemen and women.
One shocked shopper wrote: “Seriously??? I gave them money as did quite a few others.”
Another resident accused the group of “preying on good folk” and exploiting public sympathy for veterans and homelessness to fill their own pockets.
The controversy escalated after Morrisons Weymouth staff reportedly intervened. Community Champion Chrissy Priddice confirmed the individuals were being asked to leave the premises and warned shoppers not to donate.
She said: “Unfortunately they keep turning up unannounced. I will be reporting them again, as this is not the first time. Please do not donate to them. We have so many lovely genuine charities in this; it makes me so cross.”
The allegations have reignited concerns over so-called “bucket charities” and questionable fundraising groups operating outside supermarkets, retail parks and town centres across the UK. While many collections are legitimate, others exploit loopholes in regulations and rely on emotional manipulation to encourage hurried donations from members of the public who assume the cause has been vetted.
Particular anger has focused on claims surrounding the group’s financial records. Residents examining publicly available accounts allegedly discovered that tens of thousands of pounds in donations appeared to have been absorbed by “administration” and wages, with only a tiny proportion reaching charitable causes.
One local described the figures as “disgusting”, claiming that less than five percent of donations appeared to go to actual charities.
The incident serves as a stark reminder that people should always carry out basic checks before handing over money, especially to street collectors using emotionally charged causes such as veterans, homelessness, sick children, or animal welfare.
Experts advise the public to verify whether a group is registered with the Charity Commission and to ask for an official charity registration number. Genuine charities should be transparent about where funds are going and should willingly provide information when asked.
People are also encouraged to avoid making impulse donations in supermarket car parks or on busy streets where pressure tactics are sometimes used. Instead, donate directly through a recognised charity’s official website or through established local organisations whose work can be independently verified.
If anyone believes they may have been misled or scammed, they should report the matter to Action Fraud and notify the store management immediately.
For many residents in Weymouth, however, the damage has already been done. The real victims are not just the shoppers who may have lost money but also the genuine veterans and homeless charities now forced to fight against growing public mistrust created by dubious collectors trading on compassion.
Dorset Eye contacted Morrisons Weymouth, and they have confirmed that the group was moved and the police have been notified.
