LBTV A Force for the community…
Registration now open for the 8th flagship fundraising event for The Big Issue Foundation
Sign-up today to The Big London Night Walk to see London’s streets in a whole new light and to support Big Issue vendors to take steps away from them.
The 13-mile-long walking challenge, taking place on Friday 8th March 2019, not only offers walkers to see the iconic landmarks of London by night but also showcases real-life stories and insights from Big Issue vendors providing an alternative view of the capital’s street life.
Last year, the Beast from the East prevented the event going ahead, so it is even more vital that walkers from around the UK to sign up to this fun Friday night challenge with friends, family and colleagues to make a difference to the lives of Big Issue vendors.
So far over 2,000 walkers have taken part in events and raised in excess of £450,000 to support Big Issue vendors across the UK. This year they are hoping to raise £100,000 to support more homeless and vulnerably housed Big Issue vendors across the country.
This year, the unique route, will start and finish at Shoreditch Town Hall and will have three rest stops for refreshments along the way.
Big Issue vendor Bill , who was supported by The Big Issue Foundation to find a safe home and attended the walk in 2017, commented: “It was so important to me that The Big Issue Foundation team focused on helping me access healthcare when I first walked through the door and started selling the magazine. Liam, a Service Broker assessed my immediate and longer-term needs. My medication had run out so Liam arranged for me to see a doctor and Chloe was registered with The Dogs Trust so she could stay healthy too! I’m so grateful for the support of The Big Issue Foundation, knowing that they are there to help me”.
James Bowen, former Big Issue seller and author of A Street Cat Named Bob, said: “I’m delighted to return as celebrity ambassador alongside Bob for The Big Night Walk once again. This event lets participants have an insight into the realities of rough sleeping, where it’s often safer to keep walking throughout the cold night than try to sleep on the streets. It’s heartbreaking to see the issues of homelessness and poverty only get worse, but The Big Issue Foundation provides support to those who need it, much like I did, and each person who supports them is changing lives. Me and Bob are so excited to welcome supporters to The Big Night Walk and it’s not too late to join us- sign up now before tickets sell out!”
Stephen Robertson, Big Issue Foundation CEO, said: ““Whatever way you look at it, homelessness, rough sleeping and other poverty indicators are getting worse. The Big Night Walk is a challenge but we live in challenging times. The event engages directly with the spirit of support and positivity that our event participants bring to the Big Issue and the work of The Big Issue Foundation.
“I very much look forward to walking and talking with everyone through the night. Each person taking part helps us to help more people and to change lives for good. Join us and be a star under the stars.”
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.
Register to join The Big London Night Walk on Friday 8th March 2018 for only £25 (or £20 per person if in a team of 5 or more) and pledge to raise just £250 to take part.
To register, visit www.bigissue.org.uk/walk.
