Companies that purchase from charity retailers and would like to enter CRA Corporate Membership must complete Stage 1 of TRUST, including paying the initial fee. This fee is in addition to the Corporate Membership fee and is non-refundable in the event of failing background checks. If checks are passed, Corporate Membership is granted, as is a grace period of one year to pass Stage 2. If at the end of that year TRUST status has not been achieved, Corporate Membership will be revoked.
Textile and used goods reuse and recycling
Trader Recycling Universal Standard (TRUST)
A certification for traders in second hand clothing, textiles and household products.
What is TRUST?
A standard for CRA corporate members that purchase from charities
Companies that purchase goods from charity retailers are typically collectors of goods for recycling or resale, but the scheme applies to any CRA corporate member that purchase items from our charity members.
Giving charity retailers confidence in their collectors
Many traders are reputable, but some do not live up to high standards. TRUST aims to give charities the confidence that their goods will be collected reliably, they will be paid promptly, and that traders are working to best practice.
How does TRUST work?
Behind TRUST is an audit process that looks at business practice, health and safety, working conditions, environmental sustainability, and compliance with transport regulations. There are two stages.
Stage 1
After applying for TRUST, the administrator will carry out a series of background checks. If these are passed, the process can proceed to the full audit stage.
Stage 2
The full audit will be carried out by an external auditor on the company’s premises. The result can be a pass, a pass subject to remedies, or a fail.
How much does it cost?
The cost of certification is £2800, with 50% payable at Stage 1 and 50% at Stage 2. Certification once granted will normally last for two years.
Who administers the scheme?
The TRUST scheme is administered by the TRUST forum. The scheme is not administered by the Charity Retail Association.
What does this mean for Corporate Membership?
What are the benefits of TRUST status?
Obtaining TRUST status is not just an administrative procedure to remain or become a CRA Corporate Member. There are many more benefits.
Partnerships with TRUST status holders only
Over time, increasing numbers of charities and local authorities will refuse to work with recyclers and collectors who do not have TRUST status.
Satisfaction of certified operations
You will have the comfort of knowing that your working practices have been certified in a transparent and objective way - external auditor approved.
Upgrade your marketing
It’s a differentiating selling point for a trader’s services, and the TRUST logo can be used on all your publicity and promotional material.
Enhance your profile and reputation
It’s a way of showing customers, staff and clients the quality of your business practices and the extent to which you are a reputable organisation.