Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty
News

I was a Big Issue vendor and now I'm a Harley Street therapist

Mark Dempster struggled with drug addiction when he was younger, and turned to the Big Issue back in the 1990s. He has completely transformed his life since, and is now a fully trained counsellor with his own practice in Harley Street.

Mark Dempster. Photo: Louise Haywood-Schiefer

A former drug addict and dealer, Mark Dempster sold The Big Issue in the 1990s before he trained as a counsellor and launched his successful Harley Street practice.

He has also co-hosted a radio show with Russell Brand.

“I have led two lives – one before recovery from addiction and one after,” he says.

“The experience and support The Big Issue gave me during my early addiction recovery helped me regain control and become a successful therapist and addiction expert.”

Advertising helps fund Big Issue’s mission to end poverty

DO YOU KNOW HOW BIG ISSUE 'REALLY' WORKS?

Watch this simple explanation.

Recommended for you

View all
Pensioners in poverty skip baths as water bills rise: 'I hate living this way'
elderly woman washing food in tap water
Water

Pensioners in poverty skip baths as water bills rise: 'I hate living this way'

Homelessness facts and statistics: The numbers you need to know in 2026
Homelessness

Homelessness facts and statistics: The numbers you need to know in 2026

More than 100 million children at risk in Middle East conflict, charity fears
War Child in Gaza
Middle East

More than 100 million children at risk in Middle East conflict, charity fears

Revealed: Homeless people offered chairs not beds by councils in extreme weather
a person sleeping rough in a doorway
Homelessness

Revealed: Homeless people offered chairs not beds by councils in extreme weather