Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I buy the Big Issue on a regular basis - for a start I think it's a good cause but also because it's quite a good read.

But, the one outside the Co-op is starting to annoy me a little - it's the pressure. I go into the Co-op most days which means that most days they shout Big Issue at me. The trouble is that I'm only going to buy it once a week at most which means all the other times I go away feeling guilty for not handing my money over but why would I when I've already got a stack in the car.

The only way to get round it is to carry it round with me to show them that I'm not ignoring them.

Is it just me that feels the guilt?

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I don't buy and have no guilt about snubbing any type of street begger.
There are enough provisions in social security law to prevent starvation.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I don't have any guilt walking past the one in Accy. Maybe it helps when I know she isn't talking to me because I'm not her darlinnnnnnnn :D

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

big issue dahhhhhling lady was dressed as santa yesterday :)

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

When I saw the thread title Gayle I thought you had a second job ;)

I don't feel guilty about never buying one. You are already providing for the sellers by working and paying into the system that pays out to them. A good system it is as well.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I dont go to town that often.. But when I do then I usually buy one off her.. I am talking rare that i see her.

I don't read it and it generally goes in the bin after a quick look at the headlines/pictures

I buy it because unlike others.. she is at least trying. it cant be good stood there all day in all weather and its not the same as the con artists who want a fiver for a cuppa or whatever. Arn't big issue sellers more organised.. they have to account for the issues and the money surely?

I will always be impressed with people who are making a genuine effort to at least do something for money...

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

We must be on the same wavelength Neil I thought Gayle was after a few extra quid for Christmas:D

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

Just got back from Burnley, and the Big Issue seller outside M & S was a rather rotund Asian gentleman dressed colourfully as an elf and singing repeated renditions of 'Jingle Bells'. At least he was trying to add a bit of cheer, and singing for his supper.

Did I buy one ? ... no. Do I feel guilty ? .. terribly ..:(

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I didn't know there was a Big Issue seller outside the Co-op, as they don't pack your bags for you, and I find the new check-out a real struggle.

The sellers aren't supposed to be agressive. If he/she is, I would report them, and I certainly wouldn't be made to feel guilty, if I'd bought one or not.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

Clearly an outsider. Anybody who comes from Burnley sings Dingle Bells :D

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

LOL ... on another thread that the lady in Accrington with the same approach, looks like a Nationwide marketing exercise.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

Is this the same one that replaces the words jingle bells with big issue??? If it is, i was amused last year (but still didnt buy one)

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

i don't buy one regular, but do occasionally fer the same reasons.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

I see the Big Issue lady in Accrington most days I'm in town, I have purchased the big issue a number of times in the past, I was also a little generous round Christmas time and give the big issue lady some spare change.

Re: Big Issue outside the Co-op
 

For some time I've thought that there was something a bit dodgy about the Big Issue seller in Accrington.
Then I watched a TV programme last year which proved that there was a link to Romanian gypsies who were using the Big Issue in Britain to fund lavish lifestyles in Romania. I'm not saying that the Accrington seller is part of this but I certainly wouldn't dream of ever buying a Big Issue from anyone, I don't agree with begging of any kind or aggressive selling. I find her sales technique to be offensive and wish that she could be stopped by the council.