Big Issue recognised for ‘punchy, buccaneering swagger’ at prestigious journalism awards

Big Issue won a judges’ award for outstanding achievement in journalism at the prestigious Society of Editors’ Media Freedom Awards.

The magazine was described as having a “punchy, buccaneering swagger” and a “steely campaigning focus to change things for the better and to speak frequently for those ignored”. 

Big Issue editor Paul McNamee accepted the award in front of some of the most influential and renowned figures in UK journalism.

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In his acceptance speech, McNamee said: “It means a great deal to be amongst you all, who put so much into this industry, to recognise the Big Issue, when we are also trying to put a great deal in and help a great deal of people.

“We are a hand up, not a handout. This organisation has been going for 33 years, sometimes through sheer bloody-mindedness, and sometimes because of your support – especially during lockdown. 

“So many of you here helped us become a subscription magazine rather than just a magazine sold on the streets. You kept us going. You saved the lives of so many people.”

It was presented to him by Kamal Ahmed, president of the Society of Editors and editor-in-chief and co-founder of the News Movement. 

The Big Issue was celebrated for becoming a “poverty-fighting machine”, which “delivers events and impact beyond the hope of its founders”, while keeping journalism at its core.

“We have a buccaneering spirit,” McNamee said. “We get on with things. We try to do things that people say that we can’t, but ultimately we are there to help people get themselves out of a terrible mess, and we are there to save lives. Every time you see a vendor, every time that you pass them by, stop and say hello. 

“If you can, give them cash or use your card – you all have cards – buy the magazine, take it home, read it, tell the vendor what you think of it and tell us what you think of it.

“We are still needed in Britain. That is a real damning indictment of anything that has happened with successive governments over the last 30 years. We still have to exist, but we can only exist with you and others like you. Tonight, I thank you all. This is for every single person who has ever sold the Big Issue.” 

Deputy digital editor of the Big Issue Sophia Alexandra Hall was also shortlisted for the Georgina Henry Award organised by Women in Journalism, in recognition of her work to create a toolkit which helps prepare journalists for an interview with someone from a care-experienced background.

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