Big Issue vendors will be back to selling the magazine on streets across England and Wales next month, it has been announced.
About 2,000 sellers will be back out from July 6 for the first time in 15 weeks because of the coronavirus lockdown.
Street sales were halted on March 20 but the magazine has been available in supermarkets and other stores as well as through subscriptions, which has enabled the organisation to maintain financial and other help for vendors.
A health and safety plan of action has been set out to ensure vendors are able to sell the magazine safely and customers are able to buy with confidence.
It includes contactless card payments and investment in personal protective equipment for vendors.
Big Issue founder Lord John Bird said: “Since the end of March, we’ve been going all-out to completely change, and save, the Big Issue during the Covid-19 crisis.
“Our utmost priority has always been the safety and wellbeing of our vendors. We are pleased to be working towards being back out selling on Monday, July 6, with a firm plan in place that gives peace of mind to readers and vendors alike.
“We can’t wait to be back. Our vendors are looking forward to getting back to selling the magazine to our fantastic customers who they have missed throughout the lockdown.”
