Big Issue vendors buy the magazine for £1.25 and sell it for £2.50, keeping £1.25 for each copy they sell.

Last year alone we helped vendors put more than £5million in their pockets, releasing them from a dependence on hand-outs and providing an alternative to begging.

Over more than 22 years the organisation has helped thousands of vulnerable people to take control of their lives, and currently works with around 2000 homeless and vulnerably housed people across the UK.

We recognise that earning an income is first step on the journey away from homelessness. The Big Issue Foundation, a registered charity, helps link vendors with the vital support and services. The organisation offers advice and referrals in four keys areas; housing, health, financial independence and aspirations, and relies almost entirely on voluntary donations.

A hand up, not a handout