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
In pictures: What it's like to sleep in your car while homeless in a heatwave
Sam Singleton's car parked next to a tent in the shade
Sam Singleton

In pictures: What it's like to sleep in your car while homeless in a heatwave

Reform wants to slash £50 billion from welfare spending. Here's what it could mean for benefits
Reform UK

Reform wants to slash £50 billion from welfare spending. Here's what it could mean for benefits

Protesters block roads and occupy offices over the cost of living: 'Bills are rising but so are we'
Acorn protesters occupied offices to protest the cost of living crisis
Protest

Protesters block roads and occupy offices over the cost of living: 'Bills are rising but so are we'

Chicken Shop Date star Amelia Dimoldenberg: 'Young people are always the first to bear the brunt of cuts'
Amelia Dimoldenberg
Employment

Chicken Shop Date star Amelia Dimoldenberg: 'Young people are always the first to bear the brunt of cuts'