TBIF Summer Newsletter 2018 by The Big Issue Foundation

SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2018

PERFECT MATCH

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p1 / SUMMER 2018

CEO COLUMN: SUMMER 2018

SUMMER NEWSLETTER 2018

CONTENTS Raise A Glass To Vendor Bill 03 Bournemouth vendor finds a dream job at a brewery What You Have Helped Us Achieve 04 The facts and figures of vendor success On The Ball (cover story) 06 Julie goes from the streets to a job she loves A Week In The Life 08 Simon and Stephen in Dorset & Hampshire News From Around The Country 10 An MP sells the magazine, and other news The Saints Go Marching On 12 The partnership with Southampton FC develops Dear Reader 14 How a card reader boosted Paul's magazine sales Activists' Corner 15 John Bird joins a panel to end rough sleeping Beauty Sleep 16 Exciting new ways to support The Big Issue Foundation In Loving Memory 18 We celebrate the life of much-loved vendor Kevin Headley Trek Star 20 Gary Buchan prepares for a mighty trekking challenge

Our exciting range of fundraising events, page 16

WWW.BIGISSUE.ORG.UK/NEWSLETTERS Photography by Magnus Arrevad, Travis Hodges, Marcus Pond To complement the self-help ethos of The Big Issue magazine, The Big Issue Foundation was established in 1995 as an independently registered charity. We support Big Issue vendors to achieve financial stability through their magazine sales while supporting them to overcome longstanding social disadvantages. All of our beneficiaries are Big Issue vendors who buy magazines for £1.25 with their own money from official distribution points and sell them for £2.50 on a designated pitch. Our vision is to end poverty and exclusion for vendors and our mission is to connect them to the vital support and specialist services that enable them to rebuild their lives and determine their own pathways to a better future.

3rd Floor, 113-115 Fonthill Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 3HH Tel: 0207 526 3458 www.bigissue.org.uk Email: foundation@bigissue.com www.twitter.com/TBIF www.facebook.com/TheBigIssueFoundation Registered Charity No. 1049077 UNSUBSCRIBE INFO: If you wish to unsubscribe from our postal newsletters please call 0207 526 3458 or email foundation@bigissue.com

Welcome to our latest newsletter. At The Big Issue Foundation, we know that each person’s journey is their own. The journey for us begins when someone chooses to become a newsagent without a shop, buying The Big Issue, investing their own cash into their stock and trading their way out of their situation. Vendors know each transaction is more than just a sale – customers help build your confidence and help you move forward. The acknowledgement that you have got up, are doing a job of work and are taking part in society counts for so much. At the acute end of poverty there are many serious challenges including homelessness, addiction and mental illness and many Big Issue vendors suffer from the effects of these and much more. For over 20 years, The Big Issue Foundation has been helping vendors deal with the issues that have brought them to us. In whatever way you have helped, I cannot thank you enough, dear reader. In this newsletter, we celebrate just a few of the many journeys that vendors have embarked upon. The help, care and intervention by our staff and partner agencies are a vital part of vendors’ support networks, helping to navigate the many obstacles and challenges that arise to create opportunities for brighter futures. Former Army medic Bill found himself living a hermit-like life, spending several months living in a cave. He went onto become an ambassador for our family, sharing his story, giving eloquent and motivational speeches ahead of fundraising events and raising money to support our frontline staff. Bill now has a new job and I think you will find his story more than inspirational! (p3) Julie faced challenges in her life that many of us might struggle to overcome. Family tragedies led to extreme emotional difficulties, relationship breakdown, ill health and finally a terrifying life on the streets. Julie joined The Big Issue and gained a whole new group of friends and forged a new life for herself. Our team of Service Brokers helped her to achieve her goals and find somewhere to call home. (p6) Julie has taken part in a unique scheme developed by our friends in the charitable arm of Southampton Football Club. The Saints Foundation has provided her with the support to obtain qualifications and employment opportunities and they are now going onto host a Sleep Out event in the stands of the club to help fund more change for the future. (p12) As a charity, we are not funded by sales of the magazine. You, and supporters like you, are the change makers. Through your gifts and participation in our events you directly support our vendor support services, including our small team in Dorset and Hampshire, the very team that supported Bill and Julie. (p8) Housing, financial capability, health, education and employment are all central to our work. We seek to create equality and opportunity. We are focused on helping prevent repeated homelessness; enabling access to support services and building futures. This newsletter also pays tribute to Kevin Headley (p18) who passed away suddenly much to the deep distress of his family, friends and customers. He was always looking for opportunities to connect people for the common good. It was through Kevin that we met world-renowned street artist STIK and from that many good things followed. I knew Kevin for many years and we did some great things together. He was full of ideas and totally selfless. I was honoured to attend his graduation as a peer advocate with Groundswell. Kevin was a lovely man, he never stopped trying and neither will we. It reminds me we can only be stronger if we are together. As Kevin always said to me: “Blessings.”

Stephen Robertson, Chief Executive, The Big Issue Foundation

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p2 / SUMMER 2018

RAISE A GLASS TO BILL'S NEW JOB We are very happy to announce that Bournemouth vendor Bill has started a new career as a brewery tour guide at Southbourne Ales. A former British Army medic, Bill spent several months living in a cave and then walking along the coast with his dog Chloe before becoming part of the Big Issue family. “For four years I have been working with The Big Issue, telling students at Bournemouth University about my story to teach them a bit more about homelessness. I’ve also given speeches ahead of The Big Issue Foundation’s Big Night Walk and Big Sleep Out events. The feedback we get is terrific as I always try to give plenty of information without snowing the students under, and they tend to engage with it and have plenty of questions. “It has certainly been excellent preparation

for the job at Southbourne Ales, which I started in April, and has been going really well. I’ve always been into real ale. I used to run a pub on the Isle of Grain in Kent – we had six different beers on the bar over 18 months and I only repeated one due to customer demand. "My customers have been really supportive and I got given so many 'good luck' cards. I want to take this opportunity to thank them and The Big Issue for all the support over the past six years – I don’t think I could have done this without them.” Kirsten Thomson, Big Issue team leader for Bournemouth, said: “We are extremely proud of Bill in gaining employment at Southbourne Ales. He has been such an active member of our Big Issue community, helping us raise awareness in the local area and supporting us with a variety of fundraising activities.

“He has participated in many talks and events to spread the word about The Big Issue and The Big Issue Foundation. We will miss Bill but wish him all the best in his next endeavour.” Bill added: “I want to express my gratitude to The Big Issue and the team here – it’s a good group and they have really taken me to their hearts. I’m hoping this new job will see me through to retirement.” Southbourne Ales owner Jennifer Tingay has been suitably impressed with his efforts so far. She told The Big Issue: “I have got to know him and heard a bit of his background and hiring him just seemed to be the perfect thing for both him and us. He’s a confident public speaker, he’s knowledgeable about the industry and he’s got a really positive outlook, so it is great to be able to give him this opportunity to progress.”

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p3 / SUMMER 2018

WHAT YOU HAVE HELPED US ACHIEVE

The Big Issue Foundation works hard to support vendors. Here are some facts and figures that celebrate their steps forward

ur vision is to end poverty and exclusion for Big Issue vendors and our mission is to connect Big Issue vendors to the vital support and personal solutions that enable them to rebuild their lives and determine their own pathways to a better future.

We understand that buying and selling The Big Issue magazine is the crucial first step on a vendor’s journey back into mainstream society. From managing magazine stock to building up a regular customer base, vendors quickly learn the essential skills needed to build a successful micro-business. Newly achieved financial stability in turn better equips vendors to address the issues that have previously held them back. Service Brokerage is our core work. Our frontline workers - Service Brokers are trained to accurately identify the health, housing, employment and other support needs of a Big Issue vendor and provide expert information, advice and guidance best able to address these needs.

Over the last 12 months (April-March), your generous support enabled our network of Service Brokers to support over 1,050 Big Issue vendors to become financially independent and successfully re-integrate back into mainstream society. This resulted in 642 positive outcomes, encompassing:

Achieved personal sales goals – 172 Big Issue vendors

supported to increase their sales skills, build up a regular customer base and exceed weekly sales targets. Bath-based Gary achieved his goal of being top seller in Bath for three weeks, selling over 170 magazines each time.

172 vendors

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p4 / SUMMER 2018

Improved finances and money management – 83 Big Issue

vendors supported to improve their budgeting skills and address any underlying debt issues. With the help of Service Broker Becky, Grant was supported to contact his bank to sort out arrears he was accruing on an unarranged overdraft. He was initially very distressed about the situation but extremely relieved at the end of the call when the bank made a payment to clear the arrears.

Rehoused in suitable accommodation – 60 Big Issue

vendors supported to access safe and secure accommodation and prevent future homelessness by providing ongoing tenancy support. Thanks to the support of her Service Broker, Isabel was able to move into a new flat with Knightstone Housing Association.

vendors Accessed health and wellbeing services – 90 Big Issue vendors

referred to GP, dentist, mental health and other specialist health services. Service Brokers work in partnership with local health professionals to identify the physical and mental health needs of Big Issue vendors and make intelligent referrals to the right health services. In Bristol, Mike was supported by his Service Broker, Lewis, to register at the Broadmead Medical Centre and enrol with a GP in order to obtain a prescription for his long-term mental health problems.

vendors Accessed addiction treatment –

28 Big Issue vendors struggling with drugs and/or alcohol misuse were supported to access and remain engaged with addiction treatment programmes. In Nottingham, Mark successfully completed a heroin detox. He said he feels positive and wants to remain drug free. He physically looks much healthier.

job search, interview coaching and completing job applications. During his corporate placement with the Wellcome Trust in London, Big Issue vendor George was commissioned to write a paper on the physiological effects of depression in the context of working environments. George is hopeful that his paper will be published in the medical journal Open Access. “Wellcome has been kind to me in many ways, including designing business cards, a website and providing a laptop, as well as allowing me to attend the two-day course 'Presenting with Confidence'. This has provided encouragement and practical advice on setting up my own business providing an English editing service for biomedical manuscripts,” said George. “I have continued to write academic articles on a wide array of biomedical conditions, including breastfeeding, Alzheimer's disease and perinatal depression. I am currently putting something together on how the current biological underpinnings of mental health may have implications for large organisations, including Wellcome.”

Big Issue vendors supported to explore future career opportunities. This includes harnessing the transferable skills vendors learn by selling the magazine and helping them update their CV, and with

vendors Improved relationships & achieved personal aspirations – 78 Big

Issue vendors supported to reconnect with family and achieve other personal aspirations.

vendors

Progressed into education and training – 52 Big Issue vendors

supported to add to their skills set and pursue aspirations. This includes referral to specialist training courses, e.g. Construction Skills Certification, Customer Service Skills and Railway Track & Signalling and relevant volunteer placements. Big Issue vendor John recently sat a CPC exam (Heavy Goods Vehicle Training) and achieved a 100% pass mark. This is significant step towards his goal of becoming an HGV driver.

100% pass mark Successfully obtained official ID – 26 Big Issue vendors supported

Progressed into employment & volunteering opportunities – 53

towards the fee through the Vendor Support Fund, if needed. Big Issue vendor Danny attended his passport appointment in Newport and received a new passport within weeks. He now has photographic ID which he can use to set up a bank account.

to gain official ID. A lack of ID is a huge barrier to vendors wishing to open a bank account, register an address and/or claim benefits (e.g. housing support). The most common forms of ID required are a birth certificate and/or passport. Service Brokers support vendors to gather all necessary documentation and contribute THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p5 / SUMMER 2018

London vendor Dave Martin, supported by The Big Issue Foundation, is now selling prints of his artwork through The Big Issue shop and is receiving a commission from every sale: “I got inspired recently to produce some of my own artwork (example above). I did one collage piece that’s appeared in The Big Issue’s Street Art section. And I’ve been creating some abstract designs using coloured card. Some people seem to really like the colour combinations – I sold one to a customer for £30. My first sale. I even entered the Royal Academy’s summer exhibition this year. Even though I wasn’t accepted, I’ll try again next year. I’ll keep trying new things, I’ll keep trying to develop my artwork to take it to a new level, and I’ll keep working hard selling The Big Issue as I settle into my flat. I’ve a lot to be thankful for, and a lot to look forward to.” Dave Martin

ON THE BALL Julie battled illness and tragedy to find a way off the streets and into a new job at Southampton Football Club

y name is Julie and I started selling the Big Issue in Bournemouth about 15 months ago. But that is not where my story begins. I’m originally from Kent and enjoyed growing up there with my family. But like so many others, I saw the bright lights of London and that’s where my adventures began. I started working as an office junior at a law firm and I loved it. I was on a career path and over the next few years I continued to progress and gain better jobs at more prestigious places of work. Everything was going well for me but then my mum got sick and passed away and sadly not long after I also lost my dad. It was a lot to deal with. Working long hours, dealing with the loss of my parents and other issues led to the breakdown of my relationship. The big city life had been fun at one point but now I needed a change. I decided that moving somewhere new would give me a chance to start over – I had visited Bournemouth a few times and I really liked it so I decided to give it a go. I packed all my things and hopped on a train heading south. Once there, I checked into a B&B and settled down for the first night of my new life. The next day, I went into town and registered with all the job agencies and it wasn’t long before I got work. I soon found a flat and it looked like Bournemouth was where I was meant to be. Then my boss was offered a job in Australia – after he left there wasn’t really a place for me anymore and after moving me around a few departments, I was made redundant. Still feeling positive, I went back to the agencies and found more work. Unfortunately, I soon found myself in a very negative work environment. There was a lot of workplace bullying going on and I hated going there. Around the same time, I started to get ill. Two years earlier I had been diagnosed with Grave’s disease, an auto-immune disease that causes an overactive thyroid. It speeds everything up in your body and means I have a 40% higher chance of having a heart attack or stroke. I had been

managing my symptoms with medication but things were getting worse. Eventually I wasn’t able to make it through a full day of work and lost my job. I ended up being hospitalised at which point I collapsed and was rushed to their resuscitation area for stabilising and monitoring. I could have died. My weight loss was worse than I realised – I was under six stone and suffering from malnutrition as my body was in total overdrive. I was looked after at the hospital for a while but once they thought my symptoms were under control they released me to go home. Little did I know, I didn’t have a home to go back to. No one had let my landlord know that I was in hospital and they thought I had done a runner and had evicted me. I went straight to the council and they were able to put me up in a hotel for five days where I tried to rest, as advised by my doctors. At the end of day five, the council told me they couldn’t help me any further. I was on my own. Suddenly I found myself homeless and sleeping rough. It was such a strange experience, and honestly it’s all a bit of a blur as I was still very ill. It did open my eyes though. I hadn’t realised there was a homeless community in Bournemouth, with so many people sleeping rough. I’d also never seen Bournemouth as a place with a drug problem but it seemed like almost everyone sleeping rough was doing drugs and that wasn’t something I wanted for myself. It is terrifying being homeless and a lot more challenging as a woman. There are fewer women sleeping rough but most are addicts. There are politics to the streets and you don’t realise but you could be sitting or sleeping in the wrong place and you will get beaten for it. It’s tougher than you can imagine and I have female acquaintances who have been beaten and raped just for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. I was very lucky to make a friend who was not only clean and didn’t do drugs but also regarded me with respect. I’m not sure how I would have coped without him by my side, he was like my bodyguard. He was a big guy so people wouldn’t mess with him. We were just friends but that didn’t matter as everyone else knew I was associated with THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p6 / SUMMER 2018

him and if they messed with me, they would have to deal with him. Even with this support and protection, I realised I had to do something and was contacting the council daily to try and get myself off the streets. I was given a space at a Sleepsafe venue. Sleepsafe is a winter emergency beds scheme for rough sleepers with 12 beds in a church. It still doesn’t feel like you have security, it’s not a home. Luckily after a few weeks I was granted a place in a homeless hostel, which gave me a permanent room. Although I was grateful for a roof over my head, it still didn’t feel like home. I had lost my independence. I was sharing a room with a stranger and had to respect the rules and regulations. At this time I started with The Big Issue. Although it was challenging at first and so different to office work, I threw everything into it to earn money and spend less time at the hostel. Selling the magazine also gave me an identity beyond being homeless. People talked to me, I no longer felt like an outcast; in fact, I made a whole new set of friends. I decided that if I focused on selling the magazine I would be able to start getting my life back together and move on from the hostel. The Big Issue Foundation Service

Brokers gave me budgeting advice and helped me set realistic goals. I was working hard at selling the magazine, and was also constantly contacting the council about housing. It was exhausting but I knew it would be worth it. I gave myself two months to move on. It took four but I got out of the hostel and into my own place. The council contacted me and told me they had an unfurnished flat. The Big Issue Foundation helped me source funds for low cost furniture and blinds for my windows. I call my flat my sanctuary – a place I can call my own where I can lock the door and be in my own space. Now I had to think what to do next. I didn’t want to sell The Big Issue forever. After speaking to Service Brokers at The Big Issue Foundation, they put me forward to do training with the Saints Foundation, the charitable arm of Southampton FC. I was accepted and the Vendor Support Fund was available to help fund my travel. My first course was in First Aid. That led me to an employability course. Through my studying, I achieved my Level 1 Certificate in Customer Service and my Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Stewarding at Spectator Events. This actually led to me being offered an interview for a job at the stadium. The Foundation staff were there to help me prepare for the interview. I was so happy when I found out I got a job stewarding at the stadium on match day. Because of my Grave’s disease diagnosis, I never thought I would be involved in sport. Since then I have stewarded at around 10 matches and I really enjoy it. I love interacting with the people, they get to know you too because I work a set area. The energy on match day is unreal, although it does get a bit lively sometimes. By selling the magazine and stewarding at Southampton FC, myself and fellow vendor June managed to save up over the past year to go on a holiday. I used to travel a lot and it was something I missed. We managed to save up and get a very good deal for a week in Lanzarote and it was one of the best weeks both of us had in a long time. I’m grateful for what The Big Issue and The Big Issue Foundation have done for me. They’ve helped me get my life back on track. By supporting The Big Issue Foundation, you are opening new avenues for people to reclaim their lives. You may see us as homeless or vendors, but your support may see us cross paths in the future in an entirely different capacity. People should never be labelled as one thing and I think the supporters of The Big Issue Foundation recognise that. I do hope to be able to get back to full-time work one day but that does depend on my health. Currently I have good days and bad days and selling The Big Issue magazine gives me the flexibility I need to manage my condition. I’ll continue to take my medication and make lifestyle choices to give myself the best chance. And until I am able to get back to a full-time role I am very grateful for the support of The Big Issue Foundation in helping me to once again achieve my independence. THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p7 / SUMMER 2018

A W EEK IN T HE L IF E

S TEPHEN FATUG A AND SIMON CHILCOT T, DORSE T & HAMPSHIRE TE AM In Dorset & Hampshire we have a part-time mobile Service Broker, Stephen Fatuga, to offer an innovative way of taking services out to vendors selling the magazine. Stephen works in partnership with agencies distributing the magazine while supporting existing and new vendors. His role complements the service in Bournemouth, led by Simon, supporting over 60 vendors.

MONDAY

Monday is always one of our busiest days. It’s one of the key days to engage with vendors as they visit the office to purchase fresh copies of the new magazine. Teamwork is key. We spend the early part of the morning booking pitches, selling magazines, refreshing badges and, of course, supporting vendors with any concerns that arise. Today we’re helping a vendor obtain ID and supporting him to maintain his temporary accommodation tenancy. We also introduced a new ‘Quote of the Week’ noticeboard, where we display topics currently in the news. We use it to create conversation, to keep vendors informed of current affairs and to raise aspirations and foster an increased sense of wellbeing. Some

of the vendors today discuss attending the monthly vendor meeting, which takes place in the afternoon. Mid-morning, one of the team travels to Weymouth to catch up with some of the new vendors in the area. While in Weymouth they visit the Bus Shelter project, The Lantern and spend time in the town centre talking to current and potential vendors. The afternoon is an excellent opportunity for our volunteer Jane to spend time in the town centre, listening to vendors’ needs and encouraging them to achieve the goals they’ve set themselves in their action plans. Later, a local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) brings to the office a young lady who is currently sleeping rough. We induct her and complete an assessment. This assessment enables our team to understand her priority needs and support her accordingly. Together, we identify that she needs to be referred to the Rough Sleeper team and that she needs our support with sourcing clothes donations.

TUESDAY

Our social media volunteer Pamela is in the office today, preparing for a day of filming while on outreach.

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p8 / SUMMER 2018

The vendors are excited about the opportunity to promote their hard work after weeks of planning this project. Later in the morning we also have a team meeting. Our meetings create a space within which we can get feedback from vendors, share recent successes and plan for improvement and development. Later today we will support a vendor to attend a drop-in at the council regarding housing. This is an important step as it will support them to stop rough sleeping. We’re also helping a vendor to complete a Vendor Support Fund (VSF) application to help purchase a rail card to enable them to attend more support meetings. Our VSF grants are invaluable as they support vendors to make purchases essential to their journey away from poverty and homelessness, create an incentive to increase sales, and provide an opportunity to develop saving and budgeting skills.

WEDNESDAY

Today we attend a monthly multi-agency meeting at Bournemouth Council. Alongside other services, this meeting focuses on 10 core rough sleeps in the Bournemouth area to discuss ways in which we can engage and

F O R M A N Y, T H I S I S T H E I R F I R S T CINEMA TRIP IN YEARS support them to access housing support. One individual we work with was discussed and it was agreed that he should be a high priority to be provided with shelter. This proved to be a successful meeting where the information provided supported the work we are already completing. Back in the office another of our volunteers, Cat, is supporting vendors to complete financial services forms. We utilise this opportunity to refer vendors to specialist services that can help them further. It’s midday and we have a known rough sleeper come into the office today to surrender her street hamster, Smudge. Luckily, we work with a fantastic animal charity that is able to arrange taking care of the hamster while finding it a new forever home. This is an emotional time for the vendor so we ensure they have time to say their goodbyes. In the late afternoon there’s a positive atmosphere among the vendors as they prepare to visit the Odeon cinema to watch Skid Row Marathon, a film that The Big Issue

is part of. We were very lucky to be given 10 free tickets by the cinema manager. For many vendors, this will be the first time in many years that they’ve watched a film at the cinema. We will also trial a new pitch there this evening.

THURSDAY

One of the team takes vendor Bill to Bournemouth University to carry out an all-day humanisation workshop for second year nursing students. Today marks an exciting time for Bill; this will be the last time he gives a talk at the university as Bill is now moving into full-time employment. We are all delighted for Bill and support him to obtain a passport – a required piece of ID essential for him to begin his new role. These events are always really successful. They provide an opportunity to develop awareness-raising around homelessness, on both a local and national level.

FRIDAY

Friday morning is busy. We host

the community mental health nurse drop-in, which is invaluable and works really well as a way for vendors to be introduced to specialist servicews. We also support a vendor to attend a podiatrist appointment. For over two years they have been too anxious to seek help. The relief on their face following the appointment is hugely rewarding. Back at the office, the Lead Liaison PCSO offers support to vendors should they have any concerns. Lunchtime on a Friday has become a popular event. Each week, we take a group of vendors to the BH1 project for a lovely lunch. This provides an excellent opportunity to network and find out about the support available for local vendors. Some vendors are now beginning to attend BH1 for guitar lessons and to use their shower and washing machine facilities. We also go over to the Isle of Wight to support a vendor who has become homeless again. It is always heart-warming to be able to see the vendor in an area in which they obviously feel safe and happy, and to witness their popularity with customers on their pitch. The afternoon ends with a firm action plan in place and a confidence that their situation can improve.

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NEWS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY A CARD READER PILOT, CV SUPPORT, AN MP SELLING THE BIG ISSUE, THE MEDIA SPOTLIGHT, AND THE DEATH OF A MUCH-LOVED VENDOR

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p10 / SUMMER 2018

LONDON We’ve been shortlisting 10 vendors

who are ready to participate in a card-reader pilot with iZettle. A vendor keen to get his fruit and veg stall off the ground was connected with a business initiative that offers support for new businesses as well as CV support to access employment. Another employmentready vendor had a successful interview and trial day with Change Please, the mobile coffee van social enterprise. He is currently waiting to hear if he will be offered more days. We’ve been thrilled to welcome new Service Broker Christy to the team, who will be supporting vendors to identify their needs and barriers and connect them with vital support services. And we’ve continued our fight to end homelessness by working as part of a consortium of organisations led by Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, to help people sleeping rough off the streets.

MP JESS PHILLIPS TOOK TO THE STREETS TO TRY SELLING THE MAGAZINE

SOUTH WEST We arranged a meeting with Options,

a local support service for adults with learning difficulties, to discuss ways to support a vendor with complex needs. We were then able to establish shared lines of communication with Options, Second Step and NHS caseworkers, allowing us all to update and complement each others’ work. Strengthening links with other agencies is central to our work as it enables us to provide joined-up and personalised support for Big Issue vendors. We also made a successful referral to Bristol’s Youth Education Service for adult literacy classes, a gigantic step for the vendor at the age of 53. We saw a brief burst of media attention when vendor Robin (pictured) attracted interest in his card reader and the extra sales it generated for him. Robin completed numerous TV and radio interviews with aplomb; other vendors became interested too and we are about to begin trialling contactless payments on a wider basis. We’ve been pleased to develop our friendship with the University of Bath, which CEO Stephen Robertson visited for a talk on homelessness. A partnership with TravelWest has enabled us to supply vendors with free transport to work and training. Big Issue vendors are doing very well in Wiltshire, especially in Warminster, where vendor Paul has started occasional gardening work for residents, as well as participating in town meetings.

NOTTINGHAM Nottingham has very sadly lost one of

its most popular vendors, Dave Hale, who passed away in April. His death has been very difficult for vendors, staff and his many friends and customers. His memorial service was attended by 160 people, which was extremely touching and a fitting tribute to a much-loved man. Vendor Paul Snape (page 14) has become the first vendor in the region to use a card reader. He has had a really positive response and we look forward to trying to extend this opportunity to other vendors. We’ve continued to be involved in several multi-agency meetings and events, including work with local banks to improve services offered to vendors. We’ve also been involved with a healthfocused event to raise awareness of tuberculosis and how to access support. We are continuing to build and explore partnerships with Aggregate

Industries. They have been extremely positive and innovative in providing a space for a vendor to sell at their Coalville office. We are hoping to support a vendor to be part of this exciting venture in the near future. Vets in the Community have kindly continued to provide a fortnightly clinic at the office, which is extremely well attended and an incredible service.

OXFORD Our small team in Oxford has fostered a

tight-knit connection with a core group of local vendors. This has enabled them to develop strong, trusting relationships and work together to address the support needs and further the aspirations of these vendors. Our approach is consistently holistic, person-centred and flexible. Over the last few months we have enabled vendors Alan, Dave, Derek and Steve to secure charity funding from Homes4allOxfordshire, a local grassroots organisation, providing basic mobile phones. Mobiles are such a valuable communication tool for vendors, making it much easier for them to engage with support services and their social networks, and helping them to remember key appointments. We have also supported others to obtain ID, acquire voluntary work experience, and access mental health support with the Elmore Team, an independent charity that works in Oxford to offer support to people with complex needs. On a strategic level, we have participated in a number of multi-agency meetings hosted by Crisis Skylight Centre in Oxford. These have been organised to explore new and creative ways of collaborative working to address homelessness by making the best use of existing knowledge and resources, in the wake of significant cuts to public funding.

VENDOR ROBIN ENJOYED A BURST OF MEDIA INTEREST IN HIS CARD READER AND THE SALES I T G E N E R AT E D

WEST MIDLANDS There’s been lots going on in

Birmingham and across the West Midlands. When a space on our Mondelez corporate pitch became available, we knew that it made sense to offer it to a vendor who had worked incredibly hard over a sustained period, selling The Big Issue alongside volunteering with a local agency to THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p11 / SUMMER 2018

develop their employability skills. She jumped at the chance of a corporate pitch and has continued to attend on a weekly basis, selling the magazine in the foyer to staff and visitors from all over the world. Thank you Mondelez for this incredible opportunity! Jess Phillips, MP for Yardley, visited the office and took part in a 'vendor experience'. Like every new vendor, Jess took part in an initial assessment, after which she was issued with a badge and a red tabard. One of our current vendors then very kindly took her under their wing and together they pounded the streets of Birmingham in an attempt to sell Big Issue magazines to the public. After an hour, Jess had managed to sell two magazines and admitted to feeling somewhat invisible. This is a feeling that Big Issue vendors can experience on a daily basis, and it was interesting hearing vendors’ experiences being echoed by someone in the public eye. In January one of our most wellknown vendors, Bubble, was sadly involved in a car accident. He spent 92 days in hospital during which he went into a coma and had to have emergency surgery as well as dialysis and physiotherapy. We have had so many members of the public get in touch with us to send their best wishes, and he’s also been featured on the front page of the Birmingham Mail. We are happy to report that he is on the mend and is looking forward to returning to vending!

DORSET & HAMPSHIRE As always, it’s been a busy time in

Dorset and Hampshire. We’ve had some fabulous successes recently, including three vendors moving into full-time employment. For one vendor, access to employment only came after they had successfully passed a training course. We’ve also had some vendors move into accommodation. Their self-help ethos has inspired everyone! We previously told you about several vendors attending employment-related training provided by Saints Foundation. We are so proud to report that some of those vendors have now secured work at Southampton Football Club. Another star vendor that we are very proud of is Jacob. He has been a great advocate, introducing new vendors and increasing his social networks. We have been strengthening our outreach and are working with some new services. We also continued to attend multi-agency meetings to discuss and support core rough sleepers. This helped us recently when we needed to connect a homeless young adult and the rough sleepers team, which they had previously struggled to engage with. Going forward we plan to increase our focus on new vendors using some exciting initiatives to maintain their levels of motivation and to drive forward a pathway for their future.

SAINTS GO MARCHING ON Our partnership with Southampton Football Club's Saints Foundation offers up some exciting new developments

PARTNERSHIP Following our last newsletter we

are delighted to report that our partnership with Southampton Football Club has grown from strength to strength. This includes the partnership being awarded Gold for the Sports Innovation Award at the Sports Business Awards 2018. To secure the award judges look for organisations, projects or individual ideas that have used innovation in sport to galvanise positive long-term impact within society. Our award was primarily focused around the opportunities the club has offered Big Issue vendors. This includes our specially produced edition of The Big Issue magazine, as part of the match day programme, at the first match of the season. This gave 12 Big Issue vendors the opportunity to sell the special edition at the stadium then view the match in the luxury of a corporate box. In addition, four Southampton Football Club players joined Big Issue vendors on the streets of Winchester in the week prior to the game, creating awareness of our partnership and boosting sales for local vendors. Furthermore, four Big Issue

vendors went on to secure jobs at the club following their participation in the Saints Foundation employability programme. Greg Baker, Head of the Saints Foundation, commented: “We are really proud to have won gold for ‘Sports Innovation’ at the Sports Business Awards 2018, for our ongoing and unique partnership with The Big Issue. We are delighted that the success of the partnership has been recognised externally and to win such a prestigious prize is testament to the hard work put in by all concerned, not least the vendors themselves.”

THE EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAMME Four Big Issue vendors, June Fullerton,

Julie Cherry, Gary Jackson and Aaron New all completed a bespoke six-week employability programme and were subsequently awarded a Level One accreditation in Customer Service. As well as learning and enhancing skills in delivering great customer service, the programme offered an opportunity to meet new people and feel part of a wider THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p12 / SUMMER 2018

team and culture at Southampton Football Club. This incorporated learning about the ‘Southampton Way’ values that the club represents and celebrates. In addition, key people from numerous departments at the club came to speak with the participants, offering insight into their roles as well as detailing work opportunities to pursue. This provided invaluable understanding into the multi-faceted functionality and culture of the club. Furthermore, each vendor had the opportunity to gain new skills in interview preparation including producing a CV and mock interviews. The course concluded with a celebratory event. Following the programme, we were delighted that Gary, June and Julie went on to secure stewarding roles at St Mary’s Stadium, and Aaron gained employment within the Halo conferencing and events teams based at the club. During their time on the programme, the vendors were supported and encouraged by the wonderful team at the Saints Foundation, who run the programme, alongside our dedicated frontline team based in Bournemouth. Gary, who was unemployed for 18 months before he secured work with The Big Issue, said: “Southampton Football Club

becoming an integral part of the Saints family, community and culture. Stephen Fatuga, Service Broker for The Big Issue Foundation, mentioned that the programme gave vendors a kick start to reach their aspirations for the future offering them a renewed sense of confidence and increased self-esteem. Serena Crisp, Head of Partnerships and Philanthropy at The Big Issue Foundation, said: “We have been delighted at how the partnership with Saints has evolved; creating opportunity, hope and purpose for those so often marginalised within our society. The partnership offers so much potential and we are excited about further plans to work together in the coming months.” Greg Baker added: “We are really proud to have worked with The Big Issue across the course of the 2017/18 season. “From the launch of our world-first match day magazine in August, and throughout the subsequent employability programme delivered for Big Issue vendors at St Mary’s Stadium, it has been clear that the values and objectives of the two organisations align perfectly. “It is also fantastic that, after really embracing the opportunity that the employability programme provided, Gary, Julie, June and Aaron were able to gain well-deserved employment within the club. Well done to all of them on that great achievement. It’s been a really exciting and fruitful partnership so far, and we look forward to maintaining and growing our relationship with The Big Issue for many years to come.”

NEXT STEPS Big Issue vendors will continue

and Saints Foundation have given me the inspiration and emotional support to completely change my outlook on life. I’ve begun to believe in myself again, and I’ve been inspired to always do my best.” He also said: “It’s been great coming into a place and knowing that I’m going to be looked after – it’s kind of saved my life to be honest – my days were full of nothing and going into the course gave me a purpose and something to get up for. I’m now working as a steward here and I love it.” Aaron added: “It’s one of the most positive and self-rewarding experiences.” Julie commented that she enjoys being part of the wider team at the club and that the employability course offered her a platform to secure work at the club. As a steward, Julie works most home games and has grown in confidence during this time. Lisa Latona, who oversees the employability programme at the Saints Foundation, said: “The participants did so well over the six weeks – they have all come away inspired, and this was just the start of their journey. They are now proud

WORKING HERE HAS INSPIRED ME TO C O M P L E T E LY C H A N G E MY OUTLOOK ON LIFE to wear the badge, represent the club, it’s just amazing to see.” Lisa also went on to say that it was clear how much the vendors wanted this opportunity, showing real commitment and high aspirations for their future. She commented that it was wonderful to see the participants supporting one another and seeing them grow and flourish, taking a real pride in working for the club and THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p13 / SUMMER 2018

to have the opportunity to be part of the Saints Employability Programme. In addition, The Big Issue Foundation is thrilled to announce that we will be partnering with the Saints Foundation on a Sleep Out event on 23rd November. Please do visit our webpage www. bigissue.org.uk/southamptonsleepout for further details on how you can get involved! Moreover, The Big Issue is working with the Saints Foundation to produce a magazine co-produced by participants on the Saints Foundation support programmes. Greg Baker added: “We are very much looking forward to working, once again, with The Big Issue across the coming season. “Not only the production of a unique magazine co-produced by a number of Saints Foundation participants, but also the Stadium Sleep Out, which will see people from across our community converge on St Mary’s Stadium for a night under the stars in order to raise funds for both organisations. “It promises to be a really exciting year ahead, and we would love as many people as possible to get involved and show their support!”

DEAR READER

Paul Snape decided to invest in a card reader to boost magazine sales – and hasn't looked back since!

’m originally from Wigan and I was working as a builder when they took on a project up in Newcastle in 1997. I wasn’t able to move up there and I lost my job and it all spiralled from there. I was rough sleeping and in the YMCA when a Big Issue staff member came in. I went down with him to the office and that led to me selling the magazine. I’ve been selling on and off since 1998 in Ipswich, Canterbury and Wales – I’ve moved about a bit because I fancied a bit of a change now and again – but I’m currently on the best pitch in Nottingham. There is a ton of footfall because a lot of people go to the shops and I have

developed a lot of regular customers. I’ve had my own flat in Nottingham for the last 11 years and really enjoy getting home, shutting the door and having my own space. I like Nottingham; I live in a really nice area in Beeston and while it has its good and bad points like any other area, I enjoy living here. The Big Issue Foundation has been a constant help over the years; supporting me in lots of different ways such as sustaining my flat and helping me access medical treatment when my health took a knock. Earlier this month, I managed to pick up a few more customers after my Big Issue Foundation Service Broker, Becky, encouraged me to invest in a card reader. I picked up 16 to 17 extra customers in the first week I started using it – one guy who only ever buys the magazine with his wife came and bought one on his own because I had the reader! I saved up my earnings from selling the magazine and ordered it online for £33 after reading about a vendor called Robin who had done the same thing in Bristol and it’s been money well spent - I’m selling more than I ever have. It takes a small percentage of each transaction – about 4p – but I don’t mind that; I even got 30 days free. I’m proud to be the first vendor in the East Midlands to purchase my own card reader. There has been quite a lot interest locally which has seen me interviewed by the Nottingham Evening Post and the radio station Gem FM as well as appearing on Central ITV News and East Midlands Today. One of the other vendors who has seen me with it now wants to get his own so I think it’ll catch on. Despite all this, my dog Lottie still sells more magazines than I do! She’s a three-and-a-half-year-old Staffordshire English Bull Terrier. I’ve had her for two years now. She was just skin and bones when I got her but The Big Issue Foundation was great in securing a referral to Vets in the Community and she’s received brilliant treatment from them. She is now fighting fit and the perfect companion on my pitch; the customers love making a fuss of her! For the future, I’m just looking to keep on selling and see how it goes. Everything is going alright at the moment and I’m confident that I’ll continue to make progress with the ongoing support of The Big Issue Foundation.

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p14 / SUMMER 2018

ACTIVISTS' CORNER John Bird has teamed up with other experts to end rough sleeping in 10 years

arlier this year, Lord John Bird took up a seat on the new Rough Sleeping Advisory Panel set up with the aim to eliminate rough sleeping altogether by 2027. Homelessness Minister Heather Wheeler invited the Big Issue founder, who has been a crossbench peer since 2015, to join the panel. Announced by former Housing Secretary Sajid Javid in November, the panel is made up of experts, charities and local government figures, including Shelter Chief Executive Polly Neate, Crisis Chief Executive Jon Sparkes and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. The group will draw on their experience to support the upcoming Ministerial Taskforce, which aims to bring together ministers from key departments to provide a cross-government approach to preventing rough sleeping and homelessness. The target is to halve rough sleeping inside five years before eradicating it completely inside a decade. Lord Bird, whose Creditworthiness Assessment Bill is progressing through the House of Lords, said: “More than ever, we need to find new ways to ensure that people don’t find themselves homeless, sofa-surfing or rough sleeping in the first place. “I will be using my voice on the panel to call for cross-departmental thinking and action on the most effective preventative measures, as part of a re-energised, all-out effort to tackle the root causes of poverty – and not just its symptoms.” The panel will meet monthly and will report back to the taskforce in the summer with a series of recommen-

dations to help them move closer to their goal of ending rough sleeping within a decade. To move closer to reaching that target, the panel will focus on prevention activity to stop people from rough sleeping in the first place as well as programmes and interventions to target both the driving causes of rough sleeping and support vulnerable people at risk of rough sleeping. Recovery and long-term support to help people maintain sustainable tenancies will also be a key theme while the role of wider society, business, the voluntary sector and the general public play in tackling street culture is also a focus. Better data and clearer accountability to ensure the right structures are in place at the local and national level will be among areas that the panel will cover. Panel chair Wheeler said: “We cannot accept rough sleeping as a stubborn problem that will always be with us. That’s why we are providing over £1 billion of funding, supporting those who are homeless and rough sleeping and bringing in the most ambitious legislation in decades that will mean people get the support they need earlier. “Tackling homelessness is complex, but no one should ever have to sleep rough. The new panel is clear we need to act swiftly to realise our shared determination to help the most vulnerable in society and eliminate rough sleeping for good.” You can stay updated on John’s work by reading his weekly Big Issue column, his Twitter @johnbirdswords or by signing up to our monthly e-newsletter here: www.bigissue.org.uk/newsletter.

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BEAUTY SLEEP

The Big Sleep Out is now bedding down in different locations. Why not join us for the most meaningful night's kip you'll ever have?

ast year, we were proud to present The Big Sleep Out at the Kia Oval, which raised over £50,000 to support our vital work with Big Issue vendors. Described as an “eye-opening” Friday night by participants, the evening saw fundraisers braving plummeting temperatures as they slept out in the stands of the historic cricket ground. Before bedding down, participants heard from Big Issue vendors past and present about the realities of sleeping rough in an interactive panel discussion. The event also featured an exclusive clip from Pastles Productions’ docu-drama Sleeping Rough alongside a Q&A with director Owain Astles. Bedding down on the cold concrete alongside participants, The Big Issue Foundation CEO Stephen Robertson took part in the challenge and said: “While sleeping out for the participants is hopefully just once this year, on average over 4,100 people slept outside on any one night in the UK last year. This event would not have been possible without the terrific support of our participants, volunteers and sponsoring team from Rant & Rave. Events like this enable us to ensure that our services team can tackle the complexities of rough sleeping, exclusion and the many other difficult issues

that challenge Big Issue vendors on a daily basis. My thanks to everyone for helping us change lives for good and making the night a huge success.” After raising a record-breaking amount, we couldn’t help but wonder how to top this incredible fundraising event. However, with the help of the Kia Oval and local arts hub The Bernie Grant Centre, we’re very excited to announce that The Big Sleep Out is back – and it’s bigger and better than ever before! Taking place across two venues this winter, The Big Issue Foundation is pleased to introduce the Big Sleep Outs… The Big Sleep Out North London, The Bernie Grant Arts Centre, Friday 12th October: recently supported by Big Issue Invest (the social investment arm of The Big Issue), the purpose-built arts centre in the heart of Tottenham will be home to the first of our Big Sleep Outs this October. Designed as a hub to develop culturally diverse artists in North London, the centre is inspired by the late Bernie Grant, MP, who believed that the arts have the power to transform lives, combat inequality, and help us build a fairer and more equal society. Along with their wonderful founding mission, the

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p16 / SUMMER 2018

THE BIG STEP CHALLENGE

10-16th September 2018

BIG SLEEP OUT NORTH LONDON 12th October 2018

BIG SLEEP OUT SOUTH LONDON 16th November 2018

centre boasts a large courtyard which will provide a bed for the night for around 100 fundraisers. With no shelter from the elements and only a hard floor to sleep on, the night will give participants a small insight into the realities of rough sleeping. The Big Sleep Out South London, The Kia Oval, Friday 16th November: After last year’s Big Sleep Out at the iconic Kia Oval cricket ground, we’re delighted to be returning once again. Taking place in late November, The Big Sleep Out South London is sure to be a chilly night – last year’s participants braved nearly freezing temperatures in solidarity with rough sleepers. Waking up on the concrete floor of the stands of this historic venue offers a new and unique perspective of this world-famous cricket ground. Are you ready for the challenge? Don’t miss out on the biggest Big Sleep Out in Big Issue Foundation history – both events are sure to sell out in advance! Registration costs just £25 (or £20 per person for a team of 5+) and your fundraising target of £350 will help more Big Issue vendors take positive steps away from poverty and exclusion. Sign up and read more at www.bigissue.org.uk/ sleepout. THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p17 / SUMMER 2018

BIG STADIUM SLEEP OUT 23rd November 2018

WEAR SOMETHING WOOLLY

THE BIG LONDON NIGHT WALK

7th December 2018

8th March 2019

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

KEVIN HEADLEY We were deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of much-loved Big Issue vendor Kevin Headley. The 52-year-old, who sold the magazine outside Hackney Wick overground station for many years, died on May 5th this year following a suspected heart attack. Kevin was well-known across London as a strong advocate for many homeless organisations, including The Big Issue Foundation, The Pavement and Groundswell. He was also well known for curating local arts events and festivals in the capital. Stephen Robertson, CEO of The Big Issue Foundation, said: "I am very saddened to learn of Kevin's passing. He was a great friend to The Big Issue Foundation and always had a keen eye for new ideas and a passion for his local community. “Among many things, Kevin helped us to raise funds, spoke at events, introduced The Big Issue family to the world-renowned street artist STIK, and used his passion for photography to record some of our events. Kevin was always trying to help others and I well remember his graduation from the Groundswell project that saw him go on to help others with experiences of homelessness and exclusion. “Kevin was a popular vendor who will be missed by his many friends and customers and by the people he inspired to do more despite whatever difficulty they were dealing with. Kevin was a man of the people who always strove do more for those around him.” Supporters and friends of Kevin met at Hackney Wick at the spot where he used to sell the magazine, now adorned with a STIK tribute to memorialise the man who touched so many people’s lives. Kevin was a vocal supporter of the underground arts scene in London. He was also an integral part of many events including the homeless micro-festival It’s Nearly Friday and London’s Wicked Radio. He also co-curated monthly open mic event Bring It at Hackney venue Grow. The Grow team said: “Like many of us, we are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of friend and colleague Kevin Headley. If you hadn't met Kevin, he was a remarkable man who dedicated his life to helping others from all walks of life, in so many different ways and in many different places all over London – including his tireless effort in helping those experiencing homelessness.”

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p18 / SUMMER 2018

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big footfall and helped Garry to keep moving in the right direction by selling more Big Issues. Alongside selling the magazine, Garry has been actively engaged with The Big Issue Foundation. Our Service Brokers in Bristol helped Garry to get a copy of his birth certificate so he could reactivate his bank account. With somewhere safe to store his income he was able to accept part-time employment at the Bristol Post handing out newspapers. This was a great opportunity for Garry to build his CV and employability skills.

HOMELESSNESS IS ON THE RISE... I WANT TO D O S O M E T H I N G T H AT HELPS PEOPLE

TREK STAR Last year, vendor Garry Buchan decided to show his thanks for The Big Issue Foundation's support by undertaking a 190-mile walk in Scotland. This year, he has set himself an even more ambitious goal ...

ast year, Big Issue vendor Garry trekked 190 miles to fundraise for The Big Issue Foundation and this year he is taking on an even bigger challenge! Originally from the north-east of Scotland, Garry was working for several years as a foreman on construction sites in Aberdeenshire. Sadly, he lost his job and fell into a downward spiral that eventually led to him sleeping rough. He turned to The Big Issue so he could earn an income and turn things around. A strong work ethic ensured Garry was able to make the most of selling The Big Issue. Last June, his good sales and positive attitude were rewarded when he was selected to sell the magazine at Glastonbury Festival. Selling at the iconic music event provided a

Garry has also attended a First Aid course with the British Red Cross and is now a qualified first aider. This came in useful when a Mini collided with a moped near his Big Issue pitch. Gary used his rucksack to fill the gap between the moped and the car, preventing the victim from any further back injury. “I saw that there was a gap between the car and the moped so I was scared of the woman suffering a back injury. My rucksack was big enough to fill the gap so I put it under the woman to support her while another homeless man helped keep her neck still until the emergency services arrived.” To show his appreciation for the hand up provided to him by The Big Issue and The Big Issue Foundation, Garry walked the West Highland Way and the Great Glen Way in Scotland – a 190-mile trek - to raise money for The Big Issue Foundation last year. Armed with a pair of walking boots donated by Mountain Warehouse, Garry raised an incredible £495 so that other vendors can be supported to access vital services. This year, Garry doesn’t just want to trek Scotland. He plans to traverse the whole of Great Britain by walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats. The trek will begin in August at Land's End, the extreme south-westerly point of Great Britain, in western Cornwall, and will end 1,500 miles later at the infamous John O'Groats, traditionally acknowledged as the most northern point of mainland Scotland. He said: “It is clear to me homelessness is on the rise. The support The Big Issue Foundation has given me and many others is so important and I want to do something that helps people.” Garry’s trek will begin on Wednesday 1st August and he hopes to arrive by Tuesday 9th October. You can sponsor Garry by visiting: www.bit.ly/GarryBuchan2018

THE BIG ISSUE FOUNDATION / p20 / SUMMER 2018