Snow forces Night Walk cancellation, but The Big Step Challenge marches on

The Big Issue Foundation has announced that its biggest fundraising event of the year, The Big London Night Walk, has become the latest victim of the severe weather conditions.

The event, which was due to take place on Friday 2 March, was cancelled due to safety fears. But fear not. We march on.

And the charity is instead calling on supporters across the country and around the world to sign up to a virtual fundraising event, The Big Step Challenge, to support Big Issue vendors taking positive steps away from the streets.

Every penny raised is vital in our support work and the journey of change we try so hard to create for Big Issue vendors

The Big Step Challenge is a virtual event, meaning we can all take part, anywhere in the country – or even the world – via our phones or computers. You can count your steps through Strava, Fitbit or Map My Fitness, or through the pedometer on most smartphones.

Whether walking to work, walking the dog or just walking for fun, all you need to do is get to your 10,000 step target each day from 12-25 March and aim to raise £100 as you do.

Stephen Robertson, CEO of The Big Issue Foundation, said: “It is with deep regret that we took the decision to cancel The Big Night Walk due to severe weather conditions.

Each step a vendor takes is a step towards social inclusion

“Our work continues regardless and I am hopeful that participants will continue to fundraise, despite the cancellation, in the knowledge that every penny raised is vital in our support work and the journey of change we try so hard to create for Big Issue vendors.

“We are now calling on supporters to sign up to The Big Step Challenge, which will raise vital funds to support our work to help change more lives for good.

“Empowerment for Big Issue vendors is so much more than simply financial – be it securing a safe place to live, reconnecting with loved ones, tackling health issues or embarking on training and development opportunities, our approach is tailored and vendor-focused.

“Each step a vendor takes is a step towards social inclusion, a catalyst for personal change and an escape from their poverty.

“Please do join us by taking part in the challenge in the knowledge that each and every participant will be playing a part in creating positive social change and hope for the future.”

The Big Issue Foundation addresses the wider needs of Big Issue vendors, beyond earning an income. They offer support to vendors in order for them to access healthcare, housing, banking and to rebuild their aspirations.

• Find out more and sign up today for just £5 – all participants receive a free Big Issue Foundation T shirt and a medal