FAQs

Q. Are you part of Oxfam?

A. We are a separate group of volunteers, who agree with Oxfam's general objectives and values, and support specific campaigns. We work closely with the Campaigns Offices in Manchester and Oxford, and Oxfam helps with physical resources such as posters and action cards. However, like other local groups, we are not part of the organisation itself, and we do not have charitable status.

Q. Where do you receive your funding from?

A. At the moment, we are supported principally by donations from group members, with some support from Oxfam UK for expenses and for particular projects.

As our campaigning activities expand, we are looking to increase the amount of fundraising we do to support the group. We will always make clear to potential donors and sponsors, and in all publicity materials, that the money raised is for the Manchester group, not for Oxfam itself.

Q. How long have you been around?

A. In its present form, the group began in April 2003.

Q. Where and when do you meet?

A. Currently (January 2010) we meet in the North West Campaigns office, usually on the first Monday of the month, 6:30--8:00 pm. As this is subject to change, check this website for the latest details.

Q. What do you do?

A. Our past and current projects include: participating in the Weigh-In for Trade Justice (2004), running stalls at fairs and festivals around Manchester, taking part in a mass lobby of MPs on trade justice (2005), running a regular campaigning-fair trade food stall at Manchester's monthly Fairly Traded market in Piccadilly Gardens, visiting MPs, protesting in Edinburgh for the 2005 G8 summit, organising a photography exhibition (Manchester's Faces) as part of the Control Arms campaign (2006), and creating a radio show broadcast on ALL FM during Fair Trade Fortnight (2006).

Q. How can I get involved?

A. The easiest way to get in touch is to email us. This will add your name to the mailing list, so you will receive regular updates on meetings and events. Or check our Events page, and come along to any of them to meet us in person.

Q. How much commitment is required?

A. Entirely up to you! You may want to volunteer for every event going, or come along occasionally. You may want to find a permanent role in the group, or just work with us for a short time on a particular project which has caught your imagination. You may have a bright idea for an event or project of your own, and would like to get us involved. One thing is certain: your contribution will be really appreciated.

Q. What skills and experience do I need?

A. You don't need any specific skills or experience, beyond a willingness to get involved. On the other hand, if you do have experience in areas such as dealing with the media, maintaining a database or website, designing publicity materials, talking to people on the street, giving presentations and talks, producing exquisite (Fair Trade) coffee on demand, or just making it all happen, then please get in touch - we need you!

Q. Does the group have any religious or political

affiliations?
A. The group is not affiliated with, or funded by, any religious, political, or ideological groups. All our campaigning is non-partisan; if we write to ministers or visit MPs, we do so as citizens and constituents, not as political supporters or opponents. And we do not ask political parties to endorse Oxfam campaigns or our own activities.

Similarly, while we may work alongside faith-based (and other) groups, we are independent of them.

Q. I'm interested - but will I fit in?

A. Does the existence of poverty in a world of plenty make you determined to work for change? Are you angry that the uncontrolled sale of arms is destroying lives every day? Is justice more than a word to you - is it a reality worth struggling for? If you answered "yes" to those questions, you will fit in just fine.

Q. Are you involved in "direct action"?

A. In a word: no. All our campaigning actions are strictly within the law.

Q. Are there any other groups in the area?

A. There are local groups in Bolton and Stockport. Oxfam UK will be able to put you in touch with them.

Q. What will you do with my personal details?

A. In general, we will only record your email address, and this will only be used to send you group-related communications. We will not sell or pass on your personal details to any other charitable, commercial, or other organisations.

Q. How else can I support Oxfam?

A. Plenty of options. If you want to support Oxfam financially, a monthly direct debit is a good idea, as charities find it easier to plan their work if they can be sure of regular funding from donors. To start giving, there is an online service at http://www.oxfam.org.uk/what_you_can_do/give_to_oxfam/donate/personaldon...

Oxfam operates a wide range of shops, selling everything from books to designer-label clothing - you can support the organisation and grab a bargain at the same time
(and don't forget the online service!) http://www.oxfam.org.uk/shop/index.htm has further information.

It's important that MPs know that their constituents are concerned about development issues, and you can become a constituency activist in order to do this http://www.oxfam.org.uk/what_you_can_do/campaign/activists/involved/lobb...

You can volunteer to work with Oxfam - go to http://www.oxfam.org.uk/what_you_can_do/volunteer/index.htm to find out where, when, and how.

Finally, you can apply for a paid job - the Oxfam UK website has the details here http://www.oxfam.org.uk/jobs/index.htm.