Frequently asked questions
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There are lots of questions we get asked about running for charity. So we've put the most common ones together.
If you still have a question just get in touch, or ask other runners on our Facebook group.
How can I run for Oxfam?
There are two ways you can run for Oxfam. The first is to secure your own place in an event directly from the race organisers, then choose to use this place to raise money for Oxfam by filling out our Own Place Webform. The second is to apply for one of Oxfam's guaranteed places in a race. To do this, fill in our Charity Place Webform.
What running events can I run for Oxfam at?
Why should I run for Oxfam?
Your sponsorship will go towards our work to create a fairer, safer, and better world for millions of people. Thanks to the generous donations we receive, Oxfam is able to continue its work with local communities in over 70 countries around the world. Find out more about the difference you can make.
I've had a problem paying my entry fee
If you're having trouble paying your entry fee just give us a call on 0300 200 1244, or email us at: events@oxfam.org.uk.
You can also send us correspondence to our postal address: The Running Events Team, Oxfam House, John Smith Drive, Oxford, OX4 2JY.
Whichever way you choose to contact us, we'll endeavour to help you as soon as we can.
I'm not sure what the status of my application is?
If you have successfully paid your entry fee and received an email confirming this, then you definitely have an Oxfam place. This is usually possible to do straight after filling in the form that corresponds with a particular race.
If you have applied but have not paid an entry fee then you need to ensure the fee is paid before the place is definitely confirmed as yours.
London Marathon applications are a little different in that they are reviewed before we offer places. If you have applied for a place then you should wait to be sent an email from us offering you a place. Once you've paid and received your email, the place is yours.
Have I got an Oxfam London Marathon charity place?
We have received many more applications than we have places for the 2012 London Marathon, and are currently reviewing them. We will be in touch shortly to let you know whether you have been successful.
Do runners who have secured their own place from event organiser have to fundraise a minimum amount?
No. We gratefully receive any sponsorship our own place runners collect. No matter how small you think this amount may be, it will go a long way to ending poverty and suffering around the world.
Does filling out the own place running form give me a place in an event?
No. Only fill out the own place running form if you have already purchased a place from the event organisers. If you require a place in an event fill out our Charity Place application form.
What's an own place in a running event?
An own place is when you secure your place directly from the race organisers and then elect a charity to run for. And of course we would love you to run for Oxfam.
What are entry fees?
Entry fees vary from race to race, and we don't charge entry fees for any of the Edinburgh Marathon Festival races. Entry fees help cover the costs of buying the places so that more of your fundraising goes to Oxfam's work.
When do you find out about your charity place?
In all races except the London Marathon and those that make up the Edinburgh Marathon Festival, filling in the Oxfam charity place application form and paying your entry fee will guarantee you a place. You should receive a welcome email confirming this within 2 working days.
We receive many more applications than we have places in the London Marathon, so we employ a selection process to allocate them. We are currently reviewing the applications we've received and will communicate the outcome of these shortly.
Our places in the Edinburgh Marathon Festival do not have entry fees, and are available straight from the race organisers' website.
What is an Oxfam Charity Place?
Oxfam has a number of its own places in running events which are available to apply for. Oxfam Charity Place Runners are required to pay a registration fee and to make a minimum fundraising pledge.
What is a 'pledge'?
A pledge is a minimum fundraising total runners expect to reach.
Why does Oxfam ask for a registration fee and pledge?
We need to cover the costs that come with having charity runners at events. The registration fee and pledge ensure that Oxfam can take part in these events and maximise the funds that go directly to Oxfam's work.
What happens if I miss my pledge total?
If you are worried that this might happen then just let us know and we will be more than happy to help. Give us a call on 0300 200 1244 or email us at events@oxfam.org.uk, and we'll endeavour to help you make that total.
What support does Oxfam provide for its runners?
Every Oxfam Runner will receive an Oxfam running pack, including an Oxfam running vest, and phone and email support from Oxfam's dedicated Events email address and phone line. Runners taking part in our main events will also receive regular e-newsletters containing running tips and fundraising advice, and will be cheered on the day by a fantastic race day team. Check out the event profiles for individual race day support.
How do I get an Oxfam Running Pack?
If you have a confirmed place in any race worldwide, you can get an Oxfam Running Pack by filling out our own place running form. You will also automatically get one if you are accepted as one of our Oxfam charity place runners.
What's in Oxfam's 'running pack'?
Your very own green Oxfam running vest and a selection of fantastic fundraising materials including sponsorship forms, stickers and a great fundraising guide.
Does Oxfam provide any materials to help me with fundraising events?
Some materials are provided in your Running Pack, but if you need anything else contact the Events team on 0300 200 1244 or events@oxfam.org.uk, we would be more than happy to help.
How do I pay my sponsorship in?
Your money from online fundraising pages gets automatically sent through to Oxfam. If you have any additional offline sponsorship you can pay this in either by calling the Events team on 0300 200 1244 or by sending in a cheque with Oxfam’s paying-in form. Make sure you clearly communicate which event you ran in. An online copy of this form is available in the "How to pay your money in" section.
How do online fundraising websites work?
Online fundraising websites are an extremely effective way to easily boost your sponsorship. They work by allowing sponsors to log on to a fundraiser's unique page and sponsor the fundraiser using a credit or debit card. The money from online fundraising pages (eg.Virgin Money Giving / Just Giving) gets automatically sent through to Oxfam.
What if I can't find the answer to my question?
Get in touch! We'll be more than happy to help. Email events@oxfam.org.uk or call 0300 200 1244 and we'll answer your query as soon as we can.
