Angry residents in Kingstanding have demanded the removal of a charity clothing bin after a video surfaced online showing a man and a woman raiding it. The footage, shared in a local Facebook group and viewed by BirminghamLive, depicts the pair pulling clothes from the donation box on a street in the area.
Councillor receives multiple reports
Birmingham Reform group leader Councillor Jex Parkin, who represents the area, said he has received “several reports” from residents about the raids. He has contacted Birmingham City Council officers to explore what steps can be taken. “After several reports from residents about the raids, I’ve reached out to the council to see what steps can be taken around the charity bins,” Parkin told BirminghamLive.
However, he noted that despite chasing the matter several times over recent weeks, council officers have not yet responded. “Firstly, we need to find out what measures can be taken, then we will discuss further with residents before taking any next steps,” he added.
Residents react with anger
The video, which was posted in a Kingstanding neighbourhood Facebook group, sparked fury among residents. Many called for the bin to be removed entirely. Cally Roberts commented: “More evidence on why we need these charity bins removed from the ward.” Teresa Dixon wrote: “Oh my God, why are they raiding the charity bin? Isn't that against the law? They should be arrested, if not for theft, then arrest them for littering the streets.” Another resident simply said: “The charity bin needs to go.”
Not all comments were critical, however. Robert Monk described the incident as a “win-win” situation, arguing: “It's not classed as theft as the owner has left them and, until they're collected, no-one owns them. Also, if the people are going to get benefit from the items, it's a win-win.”
Uncertain location and next steps
BirminghamLive was unable to identify the exact location of the charity bin at the time of publication. Councillor Parkin has pledged to continue pressing the council for a response and to involve residents in any future decisions regarding the bin's removal.
