Today (Monday, 10th October), Big Issue Group are reaching out to people after the news that 5.2m[1] people are being forced to take second jobs to pay their bills due to the rise in energy bills and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
Due to the rise in energy bills and the recent fiscal policies announced by the new Chancellor, it has been revealed that not only will millions of people across the UK be forced to take second jobs, but that 95 per cent of people will be worse off this winter, with an additional 2.3m people being pushed below the poverty line, according to research by Resolution Foundation[2].
As a result, Big Issue Group are calling on people to consider selling The Big Issue as a way to help them through these next few months. Becoming a Big Issue vendor can help you earn up to £150 a week[3], whilst having the flexibility of working hours set by you.
Vitally, all Big Issue vendors receive regular, on hand support from Big Issue Group staff and access to tailored support in areas such as sales coaching, health, financial and digital confidence. And further training programmes and work placements are available to anyone who would like to explore their options. It is also incredibly easy to get started, all you need to do is contact the team here.
Big Issue Group has supported over 100k people over the last 30 years, with many vendors having found it critical in helping them get back on their feet during difficult times.
Darren Brown, 48, who sells the magazine outside Sainsbury’s, Wilson Street, Middlesbrough: “The Big Issue’s given me an opportunity to have an income myself. I don’t push the magazine on people, I just stand here and make jokes. I chat to my customers too. That’s the most important thing in my eyes. I’ve tried to make it a proper job. I have a good work ethic. I’ve worked all my life.”