Documentary film fan? You need The Big Issue TV

The Big Issue has launched a subscription video on demand service. The Big Issue TV showcases documentary films that are challenging, provocative and vital viewing.

From the environment and politics to social activism, finance, culture, health and technology, the range of subject matter mirrors The Big Issue’s focus on the key stories that shape our world.

Lockdowns have taken income away from hundreds of Big Issue sellers. Support The Big Issue and our vendors by signing up for a subscription.

All the films have been handpicked by The Big Issue team and are ready to stream when and where you want, with hours of new content added each month.

For just £3.99 per month, subscribers will have access to a raft of brilliant, thought-provoking films from around the world.

Smoke and Fumes: The Climate Change Cover-Up reveals the scandalous suppression of information about the impact of fossil fuels, right up to the Trump White House era, A Revolution in Four Seasons charts two women on opposing sides of a battle for the democratic future of Tunisia – the country that sparked the Arab Spring, while Fight Hate With Love follows a former prisoner’s battle to prevent children across the US following in his footsteps.

They are just three of the opening offerings on The Big Issue TV.

The Big Issue TV is the latest exciting development in a year of innovation for The Big Issue. In the last 12 months, we had to rebuild and recreate our business model almost overnight when the Covid-19 outbreak forced our vendors off the street during the first lockdown.

Russell Blackman, managing director of publishing and business development for The Big Issue, says: “As part of our commitment to digital growth, TBI TV will build new audiences, raise awareness of issues that matter and inspire viewers to take action. The greater the awareness we can generate, the greater the impact we can have on people and planet.

“It will also help drive alternative sources of income to The Big Issue that will allow us to continue to provide the essential services and support to vendors, which they desperately need.”

The Big Issue has supported more than 2,000 vendors during the Covid-19 crisis, making payments of almost one million pounds to help them with accommodation, food, bills, connectivity and so much more, as well as maintaining contact during the difficult months when they were unable to sell the magazine and interact with their customers and local communities.

More than 500 vendors across the UK have signed up to our new online subscription page, meaning loyal customers can buy the magazine directly from them even while they are off the street.

We launched our first podcast, The Big Miss You, which explored stories of connection between vendors and customers during lockdown. And our digital edition, The Big Issue app and website have been launched, overhauled or re-energised as we find new ways to connect with readers and support vendors.

The new video-on-demand service will do that too, with subscription income helping us to expand our support to vendors and people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

By offering a bespoke, exciting, socially conscious library of high-quality, relevant content on an easy-to-use interface, we are finding new ways to support our vital work with vendors, while providing first-rate films for subscribers.

To subscribe for the introductory rate of £3.99 per month go to thebigissue.tv