Big Issue vendors need your help in the heatwave

It’s officially a heatwave across parts of the UK and while that’s good news for summer sun seekers, the high temperatures and sunshine make life harder for Big Issue vendors.

The Met Office confirmed parts of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are experiencing heatwaves after three consecutive days of more than 25°C or 28°C in south-east England.

The intense heat and the exposure to the sun poses health risks for people experiencing homelessness with nowhere to take shelter or limited access to water or sunscreen.

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It makes it harder for Big Issue vendors to sell the magazine, too, with fewer people on the street as people take shelter. It’s also more difficult for vendors to stay out on the street for long periods – although Big Issue offices around the country are supporting vendors with sunscreen and water.

During the period of hot weather, please make extra effort to support your local vendor if you can or consider subscribing to the magazine. With your support, The Big Issue helps vendors to achieve financial stability and overcome social disadvantages holding them back.

• Find your local Big Issue vendor on our interactive map
• Read more about our vendors
• Want to earn some extra cash on your terms? Find out how to become a Big Issue vendor
• How do Big Issue sellers make money?

Ian Duff, who sells the magazine outside Lush on Union Street in Bath, said he has seen his sales fall during the heatwave. It’s also meant he and pet dog Trigger have been unable to spend as much time on their pitch.

“It’s been dreadful. Yesterday I sold three, that was it. Monday I managed to sell 10 I think,” said 57-year-old Duff.

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“I’ve been selling lower than half what I usually sell. I used to sell a minimum of 12 to 15 a day and now I’m not even selling 10 a day.

“I try to get back home earlier because it’s too hot for the dog. He’s got his canopy but I try to get away before 1pm nowadays because it’s just too hot to work in. I think people are more out to enjoy themselves than buying a Big Issue.”

Big Issue vendors need your support during the heat. Find your local vendor on our map and consider subscribing to the magazine if you can’t get out to buy the magazine in person during the heatwave.

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