“I’ve been homeless, I’ve been in prison, I’ve been an addict,” said Patrick. “I often thought how did I get here? Without SHP and Big Issue’s support, I’d still be on benefits. Now I’m now a tax-paying citizen and everything.
“The Big Issue played a big part as did the other charities organisations that helped me out and that’s why I want to give something back to them.
“Being homeless was hell and felt like the hardest things could possibly get, but beating addiction was even harder. But now I’m positive and don’t blame everyone and the world for my problems.
“That’s thanks to The Big Issue who helped me to help myself and I’m truly humbled by that.”
Patrick was introduced to The Big Issue by another rough sleeper and, after overcoming his initial nerves, became popular selling in Mayfair, Russell Square and Covent Garden.
He eventually had to stop selling the magazine after six years – but credits The Big Issue with helping him to secure his first-ever bedsit – a time he describes as “the best in his life” – before writing to Islington North MP Jeremy Corbyn to secure a three-bedroom flat where he lives to this day.
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
Those steps proved instrumental in getting Patrick to where he is today – “loving” his job as a bus driver.
And it shows in the comments that Patrick has received with some hailing him as “happiest bus driver in London”.
“People always ask why I’m so happy” said Pat, after receiving the London gong. “It’s just if I’m not smiling or talking to people, I’m miserable. It’s a conscious decision to do more every day, to sort my face out.
“I just want people to get on my bus to lower their guard, smile and have a good time. People seem to enjoy it more, talk between them. I want to enhance their journey.
“I’m a human being first, so I don’t just act like the bus driver. I act like the passenger too, and how I’d want that bus to be.”
It’s just if I’m not smiling or talking to people, I’m miserable. It’s a conscious decision to do more every day, to sort my face out
Lawrence Wilson, director for London at HCT Group, added: “Patrick has come through a difficult time and, with the help of organisations like the Single Homeless Project and our own learning centre, he has really turned his life around.
Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
“He truly deserves the bus-driving accolades and awards he has received.”
Images: Alex Grace
