The Big Issue Foundation's Big Night Walk

The Big London Night Walk, now in its 6th year, is one of The Big Issue Foundation’s flagship fundraising events. So far nearly 2,000 walkers have taken part in the The Big Issue Foundation’s Night Walk events and raised in excess of £390,000 to support Big Issue vendors. This year they are hoping to raise £60,000 to support more homeless and vulnerably housed Big Issue vendors across the county.

The walk taking place on Friday 11th March 2016, will showcase real-life stories and insights from people who are homeless, providing an alternative view of London’s street life.

They’re calling 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. Participant walking the unique route through central London will get the opportunity to hear from Big Issue vendors and organisations joining in the fight against homelessness at each of the 4 rest stops along the 20 kilometre route.

James Bowen, well known author of 'A Street Cat Named Bob', and former Big Issue seller, will be at the launch. There will also be some great entertainment on the night.

A night walk holds particular resonance for The Big Issue Foundation because of the way it illustrates a difficult reality for those who find themselves sleeping rough. The city’s streets can be a dangerous place to bed down overnight. Those who are new to the street often choose to keep moving and sleep during the day, when it is safer.

The Big Issue Foundation strives to support 2,500 vendors across the country throughout the year. The Big Issue Foundation service team supports vendors to determine their own paths towards a better future and then connects them with local services to achieve it. Providing vendors with bespoke support helps them address the issues that may have contributed to their housing insecurity, or the issues that have arisen as a result. The charity enable vendors to: open bank accounts, access health services, find accommodation, meet their aspirations and reconnect with families.