Volunteer application stalled by HQ, no replies or referee contact.
“their apologetic emails are 'no reply' and the chat function is unattended.”
Reviews for Oxfam show a mix of reliable online shopping and strong individual support staff alongside recurring operational issues. Positive reports highlight easy ordering, good packing and helpful named staff; complaints focus on volunteer onboarding, in‑shop interactions, payment/fulfilment errors and unexpected recurring donations. If you plan to buy, donate or volunteer, check payment details, order tracking and local shop policies. For problems, contact Supporter Relations and note reviewers who reported prompt individual responses.
Examples from available reviews (Jun 2017 – Feb 2026).
Volunteer application stalled by HQ, no replies or referee contact.
“their apologetic emails are 'no reply' and the chat function is unattended.”
Received wrong, damaged CD after long wait and inflated shipping charge.
“the case was dirty and half broken with a completely random CD Disc inside that did not match the CD that i paid almost £8 for.”
Ordering was easy and customer service replied within 24 hours.
“they are the best answering within 24 hours with info requested...special mention for Debbie who dealt with my enquiry 🙏”
Initial poor handling of application was rectified by excellent support from Alex.
“Alex from Support Services, who completely turned the situation around.”
Reviews show recurring service issues: delays or failures in volunteer onboarding and inconsistent in‑shop treatment, contrasted with some praised staff.
Some buyers report good prices and bargains; others criticise book pricing or low returns from donated items and perceived overcharging.
Many reviewers praise the online shop and donation flow, while others report payment/fulfilment problems and difficult volunteer application processes.
Most product comments describe items arriving in good condition and well packed; a minority report damaged or incorrect goods being sent.
Several reviews note clear, helpful supporter relations and named staff; others cite no‑reply emails, unhelpful calls and missed acknowledgements.
Overall impressions are split: many positive purchase or volunteering experiences, but a notable set of complaints about service and fulfilment.
For each review, the core experience based on original source reviews.
Sources: Trustpilot (32) · Reviews (9) · Reviews (1) · Quotes shortened · As of: February 2026
Enjoyable surprise finds with good stock and friendly staff.
“Also good stock and nice staff.”
Received multiple dress options quickly; free returns and prompt refunds.
“Refunds are prompt as soon as they receive your parcel- no quibble.”
This page combines submitted experiences with public reviews from platforms such as Google, Trustpilot, etc. Recurring points are summarised without changing the content of reviews.
Oxfam is an international confederation of charitable organisations focused on poverty reduction, humanitarian relief and campaigning for social justice. Originating as the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, it operates charity shops and an online store in the UK and internationally, and runs volunteer programmes and supporter services.