Oxfam Books Southampton - A Tribute!

I had an email yesterday from an ex volunteer, who I used to work with in Southampton. I often hear from volunteers, after eight years working with this wonderful bunch of selfless individuals, you form close bonds, It is always good to hear how everyone is getting on and how the shop I used to look after is performing. Oxfam, London Road, Southampton, was what I would call a community shop; it was the hub of the local area and we organised many community events for charity. The volunteers were special people, as were our customers, who would return time after time.

Somewhere along the way, Oxfam lost its vision, exactly what it was supposed to represent; 

Empowerment

Our approach means that everyone involved with Oxfam, from our staff and supporters to people living in poverty, should feel they can make change happen.

Accountability

Our purpose-driven, results-focused approach means we take responsibility for our actions and hold ourselves accountable. We believe that others should also be held accountable for their actions.

Inclusiveness

We are open to everyone and embrace diversity. We believe everyone has a contribution to make, regardless of visible and invisible differences.

The three goals above were the foundation on which Oxfam was built, at least when I began my career with them in 2008. By the time I left in 2015, they had broken everyone of these values. Oxfam's focus became distracted by a new CEO, Mark Goldring, who was taking this once great charity down a path that was unsustainable, ripping up the rule book, treating his core group of supporters with disdain. Fundamentally Oxfam stood for 'Making Poverty History;' one vocal employee at Oxfam House, the Head Office of this organisation, spoke to me off the record;

'None of us truly believe, or want to make poverty history; if we did, how would we pay our mortgages. Oxford is a very expensive place to live. All of us have to survive, one way or another, whether you live in Africa or not!'

I remember feeling sick to my stomach at this statement; 'Making Poverty History,' was just a front, to make those who gave their time and money, continue believing in the work Oxfam do. Deeply disturbing voices were common place within this trust; corruption was rife!

The news I heard yesterday was very different to that of the past. The shop I used to Manage is being shut down after a decade and a half of trading. Many of those who volunteer in this little bookshop have been there since its conception. Oxfam are losing a vital place on the high street, a presence that these shops need, in order for the charity to survive long term.

I have of course heard from other friends and volunteers, just how bad the shop was doing since I left and all because of an Area Manager, who is continuing to sabotage the region she works for. Veronica Raymond employed someone who didn't know how to run or manage a shop, especially one centered around a volunteer work force. On the surface it looked like she had made another bad management decision, but having suffered at her hand in the past myself, I knew what she was up too. Veronica had always wanted to close this shop and she ran it into the ground, with the help of Oxfam and a Manager who had no idea what she was doing.

'Santi, was a total disaster as far as I was concerned. She knew nothing about books, she didn't know how to manage, alienated a lot of the volunteers' 

The new Manager Santi, interestingly was Spanish; according to the email I received, she alienated volunteers, good people who gave up their time free and gratis, leaving this once fantastic shop unable to function properly. Santi is no longer there; having caused the irreparable damage, she is now back in Spain, working in a well paid job. The way dedicated volunteers have been treated is beyond a joke, Oxfam has much to answer for; discarding decent people, simply because someone can't deal with the issues surrounding a voluntary work force is a terrible injustice. Closing down a shop that was hugely profitable before a substandard manager took control shows much about those who employed Santi, their judgement and reasoning. Take a good look at yourselves; you are not doing good things for Oxfam you are destroying lives, communities, volunteers and everything Oxfam stands for.

Oxfam Charity Literary Evening in 2009; happier times!

After hearing the sad news, that Oxfam Books is to close next month, I wanted to pay my own tribute to those who worked at this shop. Volunteers are the bulk of the workforce within all charities and sadly recognised the least. I am truly grateful for being given the opportunity of working with some fantastic characters, who taught me much, all of whom I miss everyday. 

I want to say a special few word for just a few of those I worked along side, who helped us build a successful charitable enterprise.

Mavis - A true lady, who has volunteered at Oxfam for about twenty years. Mavis is in her late eighties now. Always welcoming and accepting, she was a true pillar of strength, especially during the early years, when I had just started on my journey, as a new Manager.

David - Our oldest volunteer; well into his nineties as I write this. A true gentleman who did much to help raise money for Oxfam. David would cycle to work everyday, rain or shine, keeping as fit and active as he could.

Cynthia - Left Oxfam many years ago, but spent a long period as my right hand woman, showing me the ropes. Cynthia became a personal friend and I was sad to see her emigrate to Antigua; I hope life is treating you well!

Brenda - Brenda was an ex teacher and concentrated her efforts, around children's books, her passion. Brenda and I always had a lot of banter between us. I did wind her up on many occasions; despite this I loved being in her company; a true stalwart.

Ian - A gentle giant, who I did my best to empower, lifting him up at a difficult time in his life. Ian had a heart of gold and was always there to help. I haven't seen him for four years or more now and hope life is finally taking him in the right direction.

Denise - I keep in contact with Denise as often as I can; she was an invaluable member of the team. Like me, she wasn't treated with the respect she deserved by those in charge but I know, she is finally happy working for a charity who appreciate her skills.

Felicity - Finally, Felicity, the first member of my team I really got to know; she started approximately the same time as me and was always a joy to be around. Felicity had her ways about her, and god help anyone who got in her way. A strong character, I built up an enduring rapport with; a friendship I hope to keep for a very long time. When I pop back to Southampton, I'll be round for a coffee, you can be sure of that.

To everyone else, all of you I worked with in my time; good luck for the future, maybe one day I'll see you all again. Keep up the good work wherever you are, whoever you volunteer for and understand I will always be appreciative of all you did to help me, as Manager of Oxfam London Road; we had some memorable times, didn't we!

---

---