Flu protection for The Big Issue vendors ahead of winter
The Bupa Foundation is providing vendors of The Big Issue with a health boost by providing free flu vaccination vouchers to support their wellbeing as Australia braces for an earlier than usual flu season[1].
Since its establishment in 2018, the Bupa Foundation program has provided over 1,000 flu vaccinations to The Big Issue vendors around Australia. The program was established in recognition that accessing healthcare, including vaccinations, can be challenging for people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage.
Bupa Asia Pacific Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, Roger Sharp, said a big part of Bupa’s mission of helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world is increasing access preventative health care for vulnerable people.
“We’re extremely proud that we can support The Big Issue vendors across Australia by providing flu vaccination vouchers to help them stay healthy during the colder winter months when the flu is most prevalent.
“The Big Issue does amazing work in help people going through challenging times with employment and livelihood opportunities and this is just one small way we can lend support,” Roger said.
The Big Issue does amazing work in help people going through challenging times with employment and livelihood opportunities and this is just one small way we can lend support.
This support comes amidst concerns from the Government about declining uptake of influenza vaccines among all cohorts, with children, the elderly and First Nations people amongst the most vulnerable[2].
CEO of The Big Issue Steven Persson said the program continues to be valuable for those living on the margins.
“The Big Issue vendors work rain, hail or shine, so keeping them safe and healthy while on the street is one of our biggest priorities. People who experience homelessness and marginalisation may not have access to health resources such as vaccinations, so we are grateful that initiatives like this from Bupa can continue to reduce this barrier and make staying well during the flu season easier.”
Since 1996, The Big Issue has enabled over 7,500 vendors around Australia earn a meaningful income, build their confidence and connect with their community through selling the magazine with over $40 million collectively earned by vendors to date.
Bupa urges Australians to support The Big Issue vendors by buying a copy of the magazine if they can, and to book their own flu vaccination at their local GP or pharmacy to protect themselves and their loved ones from the flu.
For more information about The Big Issue visit here.
[1] NSW's flu season is on track to arrive early. But who's at risk, and should we be concerned? - ABC News
[2] RACGP - Be prepared for flu season 2025
