The report sought Members’ approval for officers to review a current agreement between Brentwood Borough Council and the Professional Fundraising Regulatory Association (PFRA) in respect of direct debit charity fundraising.

The report also requested that the Head of Borough Health Safety and Localism, in consultation with the Chair of the Licensing Committee be authorised to amend the site management agreement on behalf of the Council. 

Members suggested that other shopping areas in the Borough be included in the review and that consultation be undertaken with relevant Ward Members, also that a Members’ Forum be arranged to discuss door to door collectors and other charity collections and that a workshop be set up for all Members to attend.

Members noted that the PFRA was not obliged to report back to the Council regarding complaints made but it was thought reasonable that it be requested to do so. 

Cllr Barrett MOVED and Cllr Newberry SECONDED the recommendations in the report and following a discussion it was RESOLVED UNANIMOUSLY that:

Members authorise officers to review the current site management agreement for face to face direct debit charity collectors and bring the amended agreement before Members of the committee for final authorisation in approximately six months’ time.