Peter Rogers, 26, Cardiff

 
People just go around in circles all their life, bumping into each other. Although I always liked seeing people having all the fun of the fair, I got a bit bored of the dodgems, so now I prefer to go on the thrill rides, like rollercoasters.

I became homeless because I was addicted to fruit machines, so I used to spend all my money on gambling. I spent a lot of my younger life in care because my dad committed suicide and mum couldn’t really cope. It was a terrifying experience.

I’ve managed to stop gambling and since selling The Big Issue, life’s very different. I didn’t used to be a loner, but I certainly didn’t have as many friends as I do now. There’s a real sense of community in Cardiff. I’ve made lots of new friends, got some money to pay for new clothes and am trying to save enough money to get a deposit for a flat.

I think I’m one of the only gay Big Issue sellers, so I’ve been promoting the magazine on Gaydar and also in the nightclubs of Cardiff. People have responded really well to it and seem keen to buy the magazine. I’ve even met a nice guy through selling the magazine, who took me for coffee. I love going out clubbing, which was one of the reasons I liked living in Brighton, which has the best clubs in the world.

There’s a really good club scene in Cardiff and people have begun to get to know me as the Big Issue guy. My favourite club in Cardiff’s called Pulse and I always have a good time when I’m out there. My favourite club in the world’s in Brighton, called Revenge. I would love to live in Brighton again, by the seaside, but at the moment I’m really happy in Cardiff.

This time next year I hope to have a driving licence. Once I get enough money saved up for a flat, I’ll start driving lessons and find a man to have a stable relationship with. I’d also like to thank all my customers, who have made me feel really welcome. 

Interview: Jasper Hamill 
Photo: Annie Norman