This year the Big Issue Winter Support Kit will give vendors help with immediate winter needs, plus training and employment opportunities to help them beyond Christmas.

The campaign is spearheaded by Lord John Bird, founder of the Big Issue and Big Issue Ambassador, and actor, Daniel Mays, who have both called for the British public to support thousands of magazine vendors selling across the UK this winter, in the face of an escalating ‘unprecedented poverty crisis’. 

BIG has reported that over the winter months they will experience a huge influx of people at the sharp end of poverty signing up to sell the Big Issue magazine as a vital source of income and to cover their basic winter needs.  

Daniel Mays, acclaimed actor and Big Issue Ambassador, said:

“This Christmas vendors and the Big Issue need your support more than ever. Buy from a local vendor regularly if you have one, but if you don’t you can subscribe, give a financial contribution or buy a Big Issue Winter Support Kit for £34.99. Big Issue vendors urgently need your help to earn a living and move on with their lives, beyond Christmas.”

Zoe Hayward, Group CMO at Big Issue Group, said:

“At the Big Issue, we have witnessed an influx of people at the sharp end of poverty, coming to us to sell the magazine as a vital source of income.

“Big Issue is working harder than ever to provide those most affected with the tools for survival.  Our Frontline team are out every day supporting vendors to earn an income from magazine sales and getting them access to vital services such as food, fuel, mental health and housing. ”

Jon Gregg, who sells the magazine at M&S Muswell Hill, and Parliament Hill Farmers Market, said:

“I’d like to say thank you for supporting us all year. We really do value the sales when you buy, even if it’s not every week. We realise cost of living crisis makes it difficult. But your support is invaluable, and we really appreciate people who come and buy it week in, week out in all weathers.