The Big Issue Magazine - Reprsentation of Issues

There are many different issues discussed in The Big Issue magazine
such as homelessness, government, environmental issues and so on. 

One of the main issues targeted in this magazine is the issue of homelessness
and poverty, through the magazine The Big Issue challenges typical stereotypes
of homelessness and portrays them is a more positive light. Homelessness is not
only part of the distribution of the magazine but it is also a prevalent topic within
the pages. This is shown in almost all of the magazines as well as the website
and social media pages of The Big Issue as there are countless success stories
as well as a chance to get to know the vendors and read about their lives. An
example of this would be from the 2017 Feb issue where on the first page there is
an interview with a vendor. Throughout this interview Lewis (the vendor)
discusses how he became homeless and how the magazine has helped him
rebuild his life, he also says how he has battled depression, anxiety, debt and
now is battling homelessness through selling the magazine. This shows that not
only does The Big Issue highlight issues that are in society but it also aims to
change them for the better and help remove these issues. 

Throughout all articles within The Big Issue ideological messages are conveyed
in both subtle but also explicit ways. The audience also may not even notice all
the different messages held within articles but accept the main messages. For
example from the 2010 Sep issue there is an article titles go organic, this article is
not only expressing environmental issues but also celebrating local community,
celebrating small businesses and gathering people and making them work
together. 
The tone of the article is formal to express the relevant issues but also friendly to
engage the reader with the text and make it seem as much more upbeat and a
fun way to save the environment rather than a drag. The direct mode of address
gives the reader tips and hints of how to help and get involved which may fulfil the
need for guidance and affiliation as they may want to help but not know how to
exactly do it. The social topics dealt with are light hearted showing that if
everyone comes together and sets a goal they will be able to achieve it. This
article makes the point that it doesn’t matter who you are you can always make a
change and makes the audience feel included. 
The image of the article is of a small paper bag inside a fruit and vegetable shop
suggesting environmental sustainability and the fact that this is an independent
stall that is very eco-friendly reinforcing the idea of small businesses and local
community. This article just like many articles in The Big Issue encourage the
reader to get involved and be active. 
Overall The Big Issue is all about issues in society that need to be addressed and
changed. The magazine sets out to make the audience get up and make a
difference, the magazine gives them motivation and a voice.