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

GIVE A GIFT THAT CHANGES A VENDOR'S LIFE

For £36.99, help a vendor stay warm, earn an extra £520, and build a better future.

Recommended for you

View all
Volunteering on Christmas Day: How you can get involved
a man chops vegetables on a table behind an older man
Christmas

Volunteering on Christmas Day: How you can get involved

How to volunteer at a food bank
volunteers arrange food donations along rows of crates on tables
Food banks

How to volunteer at a food bank

Where to get a free Christmas dinner in your community this year
Christmas dinner
Christmas

Where to get a free Christmas dinner in your community this year

Labour council blocks bid to reveal extent of Yo-yo Home losses: 'Why would they try and hide this?'
The mayor of Swindon
Yo-yo Homes

Labour council blocks bid to reveal extent of Yo-yo Home losses: 'Why would they try and hide this?'