Spotlight on: Oxfam's Nectar points deal

The deal

Nectar point collectors can now use their points to buy the gift of educating a child or feeding a family from Oxfam Unwrapped, Oxfam's poverty-busting gift ideas.

Good points

Using points picked up from normal spending activity can be a great and easy way to help people. The points can be used to educate a teacher or provide water for families, for instance.

Bad points

If you use your points to help others, you won't be able to get that toaster or those towels.

Conclusion

Charities have suffered in the recession as many people have less spare money to give away to good causes. Schemes like this which cost you nothing are a great way to carry on helping without hitting your household finances.