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 THIS CHRISTMAS 🎁

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

Recommended for you

View all
Inside the chocolate factory spreading sweet treats – and helping autistic people find work
Employment

Inside the chocolate factory spreading sweet treats – and helping autistic people find work

Nicola Sturgeon: 'Scotland will definitely be independent much sooner than it feels right now'
Letter to my Younger Self

Nicola Sturgeon: 'Scotland will definitely be independent much sooner than it feels right now'

'We try and make it magical': How this Big Issue-backed grotto is spreading Christmas cheer
A santa with children dressed in Christmas costumes
Big Issue Invest

'We try and make it magical': How this Big Issue-backed grotto is spreading Christmas cheer

Labour's immigration changes could cost £11bn due to 'significant loss' for UK workforce
Immigration

Labour's immigration changes could cost £11bn due to 'significant loss' for UK workforce