Big Issue seller

[Clawdy]

I've been buying the Big Issue for about three years from a lovely girl outside our local supermarket. We've chatted over the years about her family and her baby, born last year, and she's shown me photos of him. His first birthday is tomorrow, and I was thinking of giving her £10 to get him a present. My friend said she thinks that would be rather patronising. What do you think?

Why do you need permission from strangers on the internet?

Do it or don't, not sure why you're asking?

I'd just buy him a little present instead.

perhsps buy a little outfit for the money you want to give, and leave the receipt in it in case it doesn’t fit.

Is your friend one of those noble Saints people who couldn't possibly shop in a charity shop because poor people need the stuff more than her?

It would be a lovely thing to do and I'm guessing your friends are trying to poo poo the idea because they are feeling shame that they aren't as lovely as you are.

I don't think yabu - not even a little bit. Don't overthink this.

How could she not appreciate this? Of course do it if you want

Of course she’d like £10 cash

how extraordinarily naive and privileged of your friend to think she’ll be offended.

is your friend worried you’re suggesting she’s poor?

shes seeking the big issue - of course she’s poor!

Do it. She will be delighted.

I don't "need permission ", I was just wondering if anyone else agreed with the friend.

It's a lovely idea OP, you could pop it in a Christmas card for her so she has something to open. It can be very isolating being in that position.

Give it.

I'd buy a present for the baby rather than giving cash but I'm like that with gifts for anyone

Do it. I'm sure she will appreciate it. There is a lady selling Big issue outside our local Tesco. She endures unnecessary abuse from some people. I usually give her a couple of quid when I see her there, she is never offended at this!!

Be careful! I believe Big Issue sellers are not allowed to accept cash donations. If she accepts a gift of money from you, rather than selling you a Big Issue for its cover price, she may get into trouble and lose her permission to sell the magazine. I suggest a gift for the baby, perhaps with the receipt, so she can exchange it if she wishes.

BadGranny I didn't realise that, when I buy the magazine I always give her a fiver, and I won't take the change, so not sure if that counts as a cash donation.

www.bigissuenorth.com/about-us/vendor-expectations/

This sets out the rules. Of course, unless a vendor is observed breaking them, there’s unlikely to be a comeback, but it’s potentially a problem.

big issue vendors can accept money as a gift as long as they don’t ask for it by begging, I know a few people that have given vendors money so they can get a hot or cold drink. I think giving a present for a young child of a Big issue vendor shows what a good soul someone has.