The Big Issue vendors are no longer selling the magazine on the streets — but you can still support the charity's work in several ways.
Founder Lord John Bird announced on social media that vendors have told they can't currently sell the publication face to face, due to the threat of coronavirus.
We make this announcement with a heavy heart, but we need to safeguard our vendors during #COVID19.
— The Big Issue (@BigIssue) March 21, 2020
Now more than ever we need your support: Subscribe for 3 months online, order this week’s mag from our shop or make a one-off payment.
https://t.co/eORzjkaXKQ#supportbigissue pic.twitter.com/UXccyj78jv
However, with the magazine being the only way that the majority of homeless and vulnerable Big Issue vendors can earn any money, it needs your support.
You can take out a three-month subscription and have the magazine delivered to your house every week (or just buy the latest issue as a one-off). You can also buy and download a digital copy of the magazine. The Big Issue is also accepting one-off financial donations, 50% of which goes to the vendors, and 50% of which goes towards the magazine's running costs.
The Big Issue was founded in 1991 as a way to help rough sleepers earn a legitimate living. Vendors purchase the magazine for £1.25 a copy, and sell it on for £2.50, keeping the profit. It also runs The Big Issue Foundation, a charity which helps vendors move forward and regain their independence.
Keep up to date on all the latest London coronavirus news here.
