Big Issue vendors return across Devon
1,400 vendors are back out across England and Wales for the first time in over 22 weeks since lockdown
Last updated 15th Apr 2021
Big Issue vendors in Devon have returned eagerly to their pitches to sell the magazine for the first time since the third national lockdown.
The Big Issue, which offers homeless and vulnerably housed people a means by which to earn a legitimate income, has taken the decision over the past three national lockdowns to safeguard its network of vendors and the public by asking that they stop selling on streets across the whole of the UK.
Following announcements by the government regarding the easing of restrictions, the organisation confirmed that 1,400 magazine vendors will be back out selling the magazine across England and Wales for the first time in over 22 weeks since lockdown.
TBI has taken measures including the provision of extensive PPE, contactless card payment equipment and the introduction of stringent health and safety procedures in all distribution offices to ensure vendors' and customers safety remains paramount.
Clive Rowe, 58, who sells the magazine outside the Theatre Royal Plymouth, said:
"I'm looking forward to seeing all my friends at the theatre and all the people who work in theatre. All the people who keep the theatre running, design the shows, choreograph things and run the electrics. I can't wait to go back and see them all and see who's come through the storm. It's all about the people for me, so I can't wait to see all my customers and friends. That's the biggest thing for me."
Will Adams, 30, who sells the magazine outside the O2 store at High Street in Exeter, said:
"I miss my customers. Quite a lot of them are elderly so I do worry about them and I just want to make sure everyone is okay. It will be good to see the other vendors as well. Off the top of my head, there are like seven pitches in Exeter and most are in the city centre so you will see some if not all of the vendors at some point during the day.
"Honestly, I can't wait to be able to have a burger and a pint. It doesn't even have to be with friends. Even if I just go and do that on my own, to have that nice cold pint and that burger, there's nothing better. I really miss the social interaction of everything. I'm very social and I've got a lot of friends. I'm always around people really. I love the people I'm staying with at the moment, they're great, but I miss my friends a lot."
Lord John Bird, founder of The Big Issue said:
"We are full of pride and hope that, after over 22 weeks of being in lockdown, our vendors are back out there, able to reconnect with their local communities and earn a legitimate income once again.
"As ever, we wish to thank all those who have so generously supported us and our vendors during this challenging time. Every donation and subscription that has been made or taken out, has meant that we have been able to support vendors while they have been unable to sell the magazine safely on the streets.
"Please look out for your local vendor back on their pitch from today. We would encourage anyone who doesn't have a local vendor and wants to support our mission to help people in poverty improve their lives to buy a subscription to the magazine. We've have missed you all and we are so pleased to be back."