Big Issue North’s 2025 calendar is now available for purchase from vendors and online at shop.bigissuenorth.com. The calendar supports the organization’s mission to empower and support its 350 vendors who sell the street magazine across the North West, Yorkshire, and the Humber regions. These vendors face numerous barriers to mainstream employment, such as homelessness, lack of qualifications or work experience, no ID or bank account, language barriers, health challenges, and care responsibilities.
All proceeds from the calendar sales will either directly benefit the vendors or go towards supporting the Big Issue North Trust, a registered charity (1056041). The Trust aims to help individuals secure stable employment and provide essential support, including access to housing, education and skills training, identification documents, card readers, home furnishing packages, and more.
This year’s calendar takes a unique approach by showcasing the north through the lens of the vendors themselves. While the region has seen significant growth and development in recent years, with cities like Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds earning prestigious titles such as UNESCO City of Literature and European Capital of Culture, there is still a stark reality behind the glitz and glamour.
Recent statistics from October 2024 revealed that one in every 200 people in the UK is experiencing homelessness. In Manchester, this number rises to one in 74, and the North West, Yorkshire, and the Humber are among the five lowest income areas in the country.
To capture the true essence of the north, four vendors – Andrew in Sheffield, Colin in Manchester, Vasile in Leeds, and Christopher in Liverpool – took two emerging photographers, Cory Schiltz and Abi Black, on tours of their cities. Through their eyes, the calendar highlights the contrast between the bustling city centers with their modern architecture and cultural landmarks, and the neglected high-rises and unsheltered underpasses that many people in these otherwise thriving cities are forced to call home.
The north has a long history of hard work, dating back to the Industrial Revolution, and the Big Issue vendors continue this tradition today. However, with the ongoing impact of COVID-19, the streets are far quieter than before, and fewer people carry cash, making it even more challenging for vendors to earn a living. In cities where the cost of living is rising, this poses a significant challenge for those experiencing homelessness.
Chris, a vendor in Manchester, shares, “The city feels much emptier than it used to. I miss my regulars who used to stop by on their way to work or during lunch breaks. Now it’s dead slow, and people just walk by.”
The calendar also features two beloved canine companions, Mabel and Dottie, who belong to Andrew and his partner Mel, both Big Issue vendors in Sheffield. “They’re both so funny and sweet,” says Andrew. “If we’re upset, Dottie will go up and put her head on your shoulder. She can just sense when something’s wrong. They brighten your day.”
The Big Issue North’s 2025 calendar, distributed by pressat.co.uk, offers a unique perspective on the north through the eyes of those who know it best. By purchasing a calendar, you will not only enjoy stunning photographs but also support a worthy cause and help make a positive impact on the lives of Big Issue vendors.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.