The sponsorship deal will see the RCN logo feature prominently on the tabards that the UK’s 1,500 Big Issue vendors wear when selling the award-winning weekly magazine.
We are enormously grateful to The Royal College of Nursing for sponsoring our iconic red tabards
“We believe in a hand up, not a hand out,” said Big Issue founder Lord Bird, pictured above with RCN chief executive Janet Davies and vendors Pat, left, and George. “Vendors buy The Big Issue magazine for £1.25 and sell it for £2.50, meaning each seller is a micro-entrepreneur who is working, not begging. The eye-catching red tabards are a vital part of the operation of their business, helping them to stand out to their customers.
“Therefore, we are enormously grateful to The Royal College of Nursing for sponsoring our iconic red tabards for the next three years and helping us to support our vendors across the UK.”
He continued: “I also want to offer my gratitude for RCN’s support of our corporate subscription service, and for helping to promote our very special shop. Together, we are working together to dismantle poverty.”
Janet Davies commented: “A nurse’s role focuses on maximising potential and enabling independence, which is why we believe supporting the work of The Big Issue is so relevant for us. Nursing staff are ready to play a part in bringing about a much-needed moment of change.
“Winter is fast approaching, and the the UK’s four governments and their NHS must agree a rapid plan to make routine care and treatment more easily available during these harsh months. They must redouble efforts to let those without a fixed address know they are able to register with a GP.
