Public charitable collections are governed by the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 – Section 119; the Public Charitable Collections (Scotland) Regulations 1984 and any directions/conditions attached by the Council. The Council has produced a Guidance Note to assist organisers.
Permission is required from the Council to hold a public charitable collection before collecting money from the public for charity and this includes collections from streets and houses. If a public charitable collection in the Midlothian area is held without the necessary permission, it is contrary to the law and may lead to prosecution.
Permission is not required to place an unattended collection box in a fixed position in a public place such as a shop counter, bar counter etc provided the owner of the premises has consented.
If a table or stall is to be set-up when carrying out a street collection, applicants need to obtain written consent from the owner of the land and forward it with the completed application. If the land is owned by Midlothian Council this is via an email request – roadsapplications@midlothian.gov.uk
Applications must be submitted no later than one month before the date of the collection. However, applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible and not wait until this deadline. Applicants need to complete a form for a Public Charitable Collection. It is preferred that completed forms are emailed to – democratic.services@midlothian.gov.uk Applications sent by post should be addressed to – Democratic Services, Midlothian Council, Midlothian House, Buccleuch Street, Dalkeith, Midlothian EH22 1DN.
Relevant documents relating to Public Charitable Collections can be accessed by clicking on the links below.
If you would like to know how Midlothian Council collects, uses and shares your personal information, please click here to access our online Privacy notice.
Application Form
Form of Statement Returns Form
Guidance Note
Public Charitable Regulations