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
Darren McGarvey: 'If I were prime minister I'd be pranking Tommy Robinson on the phone'
Darren McGarvey
PM for the PM

Darren McGarvey: 'If I were prime minister I'd be pranking Tommy Robinson on the phone'

It's 10 years since BHS folded. How do we put the spark back into the British high street?
The site of the old BHS in Kirkcaldy has been spruced up by locals but remains empty
Community

It's 10 years since BHS folded. How do we put the spark back into the British high street?

NEET numbers fall but young people still face jobs crisis: 'This is not a turning point'
people walking
NEETs

NEET numbers fall but young people still face jobs crisis: 'This is not a turning point'

'Disabled people are having to work 10 times harder to live their life and pursue their dreams'
Bella Roberts
Employment

'Disabled people are having to work 10 times harder to live their life and pursue their dreams'