My Pitch Video Tour: Britain through the eyes of a vendor

 
I was put into care from a very young age. I suffered abuse at home and I was in and out of foster care and homes from the age of seven. 

From then on my life was a big downward spiral. I was drinking and taking drugs and skipping school.

There was so much insecurity in my life. I had flats, but I couldn’t handle them on my own, and I was in and out of relationships. I was gambling too and I would constantly push people away.

Looking back, I needed someone to talk to, and someone to listen, someone to go deeper than just the fact I’d become homeless. I spoke to so many social workers, but I was out of control and it wasn’t the right help.

I sold The Big Issue for a year in my 20s and it got me back on my feet for a while. This time around I’ve been selling for five years. Last year was such a milestone for me. It was a special year. I’m back in touch with my daughters – I have four – and I’ve got myself much more under control. Two of my daughters live with me now. Another daughter, who’s 15, has had a tough time. It feels really good that I can talk to her and help her and guide her.

It’s been a very difficult and hard journey for me and I’ve realised that sometimes there aren’t answers for what’s gone before. All I know is that there are people, like my customers, who’ve had faith in me and supported me.

I’ve had some great moments too. Last Halloween I dressed up as a devil to scare my customers. It certainly got a few but I made sure to hand out homemade cake to anyone I frightened.

I’m in the right position in my life to be a father now. I’m a bit more settled and even if I got a full-time job I’d pop in and sell the Issue now and again. It’s helped me learn about myself.

INTERVIEW by Helena Drakakis
Photo: Katrina Struthers