In Leicester City you get a free bulk collection, once every 2 or 3 months (I cant remember which) which is up to 5 large items each time.
I've used it myself a few times and it is really handy, then yes, any in between that you have to pay for.
Some of these houses that line the roads off Narborough Road with mattresses, armchairs and chest of drawers lining their front gardens would do well to be reminded by the council that it exists though.