My view on charity is that its aim should always be to enable people to become independent wherever possible. Which is why I support organisations that provide the means, equipment, training and confidence to those who want to take back control over their own lives. Over the years I have met and interviewed some inspirational people in the UK and overseas who believe in that philosophy. Their work for both individuals and groups has had a ripple effect that has spread to benefit many other people in similar challenging circumstances.

The Big Issue is such an organisation. Most of us who have lived in the UK will have seen one of their vendors outside a supermarket or in the local shopping area. The Big Issue is not a begging letter or intended to act as a collection tin but is an interesting, topical publication full of features, reviews and inspirational…