Big Issue

We have an open door policy: anyone who walks through our door and wishes to sell is invited to do so. We work with individuals who have made the first step to try and work themselves out of the poverty of their situation. The Big Issue primarily works with people who are homeless, rough sleeping, in temporary accommodation, in danger of losing a home and in addition individuals who are unemployed or in danger of facing a financial crisis.

What we provide

The Big Issue is completely unique in being able to provide a legitimate income for those struggling financially. Prospective vendors can get out and sell the magazine straight away – they will be given some free magazines to start them off and we offer support to vendors in the form of sales training. By becoming a vendor, you become a social entrepreneur, gaining employability skills in customer service, managing stock and keeping track of finances.

As a Big Issue vendor, you can also access the Big Issue Foundation. The Foundation is a financially independent charity which supports vendors to determine their own paths towards a better future and then connects them with local services to achieve it. We provide vendors with bespoke support to help them address the issues that may have contributed to their housing insecurity, or the issues that have arisen as a result. We enable vendors to: open bank accounts, access health services, find accommodation, meet their aspirations and reconnect with families and friends, volunteer, train, learn and start their own enterprises and find paid work. Our charity work focuses on delivering brighter futures, boosting self esteem and helping vendors to reclaim their citizenship.