Second hand treasures. Lasting legacies.

This Second Hand September, discover how your story – and your second hand treasures – can keep changing lives for generations to come.

Why your legacy matters

What will your legacy be?

At Oxfam, we see it every day – legacies in all different shapes and sizes.

A vintage suit, a rare book, a hand-stitched quilt – each telling the story of someone who believed in a fairer world.

Whether it’s a special item or a financial gift, by including Oxfam in your Will, you too can make sure that your values live on – fighting poverty and injustice long after you’re gone.

Stories of second hand legacies

Restoring old treasures for a fairer future

Every Tuesday, Andres would be first through the doors of our Oxfam Bookshop in Tavistock, hunting for rare poetry books to restore by hand. Before he passed away, he left his beloved collection to Oxfam.

And thanks to Andres' skilled work, they raised an incredible £40,000 at auction! Now, Andres' legacy goes beyond his love of books – it continues to change the lives of many.

Historic finds

Kate and Rosemary were amazed to find a bundle of old letters signed by Albert Einstein and Winston Churchill in their late aunt’s house.

Their aunt Katherine always fought for justice, and having already left a gift in her Will to Oxfam, they felt it was only natural these treasures would contribute to a cause so close to her heart.

Second hand heroes

Married couple Colin and Sue are well and truly second hand heroes. For 50 years, they’ve shopped, volunteered and campaigned with Oxfam – all whilst rocking preloved looks.

But their story doesn’t end there. They’ve pledged a gift in their Will – making sure their fight for a fairer world goes on.

Your story can live on

Photo: Rogers Ouma

Joyce Koech, climate activist in Kenya

Whether it’s a cherished collection or a financial gift, your legacy has the power to build a kinder, more just world.

A gift in your Will to Oxfam means you’ll stay in the fight for the future all of us deserve – helping communities stand strong against poverty and injustice, today and for generations to come.

But we know choosing to leave a legacy might feel a little daunting, so we’ve created a free and simple Gifts in Wills guide to show you how easy it can be.