Is it a Big Issue?

Walking passed Waverley Station, in Edinburgh, this morning, I was accosted by a Big Issue seller. Nothing unpleaseant, just the usual pitch. I said 'no thanks' and walked on, when it struck me that I recognised him.

Turning to check, I realised that this man used to have a Big Issue pitch outside WH Smith, or John Menzies as it was, in Argyle Street in Glasgow. He was amongst their first sellers around 15 - 20 years ago, as I recollect.

I also recognised him as a frequenter of the nearby bookies!

So how is it that the Big Issue continues to support a man who clearly has no ambitions to move on in his life. His pitch in Argyle St was one of the most lucrative in Glasgow, and his current one cannot be far from the best.

If his chosen lifestyle is 'homeless', than should we, as the charitable public continue to support him?

It leaves me feling all a bit wobbly.