Winter is the busiest season for the Big Issue’s staff supporting vendors, as colder weather challenges vendors. From housing and financial support to digital skills and reconnecting families, our work ramps up to ensure every vendor has the tools they need to earn and build a better life for themselves.
Digital support for vendors
With Christmas comes footfall in city centres, and our team helps vendors stay prepared by setting them up to take cashless payments to increase their earnings. Using card readers can be daunting for vendors, as many face obstacles like limited access to bank accounts or no fixed address. Our partnership with HSBC enables vendors to open accounts without standard requirements like proof of address or ID, which is crucial for achieving financial independence. Alongside account setup, we offer digital skills training through our Connect workshops to ensure vendors feel confident using the technology.
Supporting housing needs during winter
Winter also sharpens focus on housing. For vendors who are rough sleeping, we work to secure access to local shelters, such as the Nottingham Winter Shelter. These shelters provide warmth and a place where vendors can get support, potentially leading to permanent housing solutions. For vendors in private tenancies, the impact of no-fault evictions during the colder months is greater, especially among those with families. Our team steps in to advocate with landlords and councils, striving to keep families in stable, nearby housing, and preserving essential social networks for both adults and children.
Tackling fuel poverty and rising living costs
For housed vendors, rising living costs make winter even harder. Our partnerships with the British Gas Energy Trust (BGET) and Auriga help vendors access energy vouchers for gas and electric top-ups, allowing them to keep their homes warm. We also provide warm home packs with essentials like insulation materials, energy-efficient lightbulbs, and air fryers to reduce cooking costs. These practical solutions support Big Issue vendors manage the winter’s energy demands while laying the foundation for long-term resilience.
Overcoming health barriers
Many vendors have underlying health conditions exacerbated by winter weather, such as respiratory issues. Through the Nottingham Homeless Health Forum, we connect vendors to healthcare services, including access to GP appointments and specific homeless health programs. This partnership promotes understanding among healthcare providers, ensuring vendors’ unique needs are met quickly and efficiently.
Reconnecting vendors with their families
Winter, particularly the holiday season, can be a lonely time for vendors, some of whom may have lost contact with family. Our team offers long-term support to help bridge these gaps, even facilitating travel and accommodations to reunite vendors with loved ones they haven’t seen in years.
