Facing up to a drop in takings

THE RISE in popularity of buying and selling items on social media sites is leading to a drop in donations for two Oban-based charities.

Nicholas Holden, who has been a volunteer at the Oxfam store in the town for three years, said: ‘There’s been a lack of donations this year. I think it might be because of people buying and selling things on Facebook.’

British Heart Foundation manager, Lynn Cameron, endorsed the Oxfam worker’s conclusion: ‘Nicholas might be right, as we’ve also noticed a decrease in donations. But everyone is in the same boat. We’re all fighting for donations as there are a lot more charities these days and everyone is turning to the internet.’

One Oban-based charity, however, has experienced the opposite effect, claiming social media has led to an increase in donations handed into the shop.

Cancer Research manager, Helen McKenzie, explained: ‘We’ve had an increase in donations this year. I run a Facebook page where I let people know what we need. I also use it anytime we get something in. It’s helped a lot.’