The International Network of Street Papers (INSP) is a global movement that has quietly made an extraordinary impact for thirty years. INSP supports the global street paper network (92 members globally) to empower vendors, amplify even more unheard voices, and hopefully with their new project Changing the Narrative bridge the gap between communities and policymakers. 

This article delves into the unique model of street papers' and the role of INSP in supporting their success, and their transformative impact on lives worldwide. 

A Lifeline on the Streets  

Street papers are a global phenomenon, providing more than just a means of income for people experiencing homelessness. These publications, sold by vendors on city streets, allow individuals to earn an income while fostering social interaction and breaking down stereotypes about poverty. INSP plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem, connecting street paper organisations to each other, offering training, and ensuring the quality and reach of their content. 

As INSP’s CEO, Mike Findlay-Agnew, explains, “The street paper model is about empowering street paper vendors, not through handouts but by offering them a pathway to economic independence. Vendors purchase the papers upfront, effectively operating as micro-entrepreneurs, setting their own schedules and strategies.” 

This self-sufficiency has profound ripple effects. In one year alone, street paper vendors collectively earned £17.7 million. Beyond the economic impact, selling street papers fosters mental health improvements through social interaction. It provides a sense of purpose and connection often missing in the lives of those affected by homelessness. 

INSP is the network that brings all the street papers together. Mike notes that INSP's primary role is “connecting street paper staff globally. We estimate there are over 700 street paper staff globally. So, it's quite a big job, but we have found there's power in providing shared learning, connectivity, and knowledge exchange between Street Paper staff.” The second part of what INSP does is the news service. The team send out roughly 500 stories every year to all 92 news desks of member organisations. The stories are focused on social justice issues, homelessness, and poverty. 

Various Street papers from around the world.

"The street paper model is about empowering street paper vendors, not through handouts but by offering them a pathway to economic independence."

Stories of Transformation 

The power of street papers lies in their ability to change lives, and INSP is proud to support the staff who make them possible. Mike tells us about Toni Mickey, a street paper coordinator in Cleveland, USA. Operating in a region plagued by deep poverty, Toni manages her street paper while juggling broader nonprofit responsibilities. 

Thanks to scholarships provided by INSP, Toni attended the Global Street Paper Summits in Milan and Liverpool, gaining insights and connections that revitalised her work. These summits allowed her to learn from peers worldwide, boosting her confidence and enabling her to apply new strategies in Cleveland. Tony is also a member of the INSP’s North American board, expanding her governance and nonprofit leadership skills. 

Similarly, André Rostent, a vendor for The Big Issue in London, exemplifies the transformative power of street papers. Once struggling with poverty, André now mentors other vendors and has authored a book. Invited by INSP to speak at the Liverpool Summit, André shared his lived experience, inspiring others while gaining a global platform to advocate for change. 

CEO of INSP, Mike Findlay Agnew speaking at their 30th anniversary.

Connecting a Global Movement 

With 92 member organisations across 35 countries, INSP operates in diverse contexts, from the bustling streets of Chicago to rural towns in Argentina. Maintaining cohesion amongst its member papers while allowing them to address local needs is a complex balancing act, but one INSP and its members navigate skilfully. 

Regional meetups, such as the German Language Network and Latin American collaborations, allow members to address shared challenges in culturally relevant ways. “While there are regional differences, there are also universal struggles, like declining print sales and the digital shift,” says Mike. The ability to workshop solutions with peers from across the globe is invaluable. 

At its core, INSP’s strength lies in its dual approach: fostering regional networks while maintaining a global vision. 

Paddy, Big Issue seller shakes hands with Mel Young MBE (co-founder of the Big Issue and President of the Homelessness World Cup)

Journalism as a Tool for Change 

One of INSP’s most innovative initiatives is its news service, a non-commercial wire that delivers around 500 stories annually to member publications. These stories focus on social justice, lived experiences, and systemic issues, giving a voice to those often left out of mainstream narratives. 

“We see our news service as a tool to raise awareness about homelessness and inequality,” says Mike. “Many of our street papers feature stories written by vendors themselves. This not only boosts sales but also empowers vendors to share their perspectives, breaking down barriers between them and the public.” 

The service also has a wider societal impact, informing the media about poverty and homelessness. New initiatives like Changing the Narrative will train people with lived experience in journalistic writing and take this approach further. This project hopes that participants will gain valuable journalism skills, publish their stories, and contribute to some policy-focused work INSP hopes to undertake in the future.

INSP branding, created by Bold Studio as part of our Brand for Growtth Program.

Navigating Challenges in a Changing Media Landscape 

The rise of digital media and cashless transactions poses significant challenges for street papers, traditionally rooted in print. Yet, these obstacles have spurred innovation within the movement. 

Street papers are experimenting with cashless payment systems, diversifying revenue streams through merchandise, and exploring digital editions. INSP supports these efforts by facilitating knowledge-sharing and offering mentorship programs. A recent Innovate UK grant has enabled INSP to analyse these trends and develop tailored support for members facing crises. 

Encouragingly, the concept of street papers remains relevant. “We’ve seen a surprising interest in starting new street papers,” notes Mike. “There are currently 11 initiatives in the pipeline, which shows that the model still resonates in addressing local issues of homelessness and poverty.” 

Building Trust, Driving Advocacy 

The trust between street papers and their vendors is unparalleled, offering a unique lens for understanding homelessness. INSP wants this trust to extend to policymakers, who could benefit from understanding the firsthand accounts provided by street papers. 

Mike emphasises the importance of trauma-informed journalism in this context: “Our street paper staff often double as social workers and journalists. This dual role allows them to navigate sensitive topics with empathy, foster trust, and ensure that vendors’ stories are told authentically.” 

As street papers continue to highlight the systemic causes of poverty, they play a crucial role in advocacy. By sharing vendors’ stories, they can influence public opinion and drive policy discussions. 

Support your local Street Vendor

Looking Ahead: The Next Decade for INSP 

As INSP celebrates 30 years, its vision for the future is both ambitious and grounded. Plans include: 

• Expanding the News Service: INSP aims to position street papers as credible sources within the broader media landscape, championing their journalistic integrity. 

• Growing the Network: With interest in starting new street papers, INSP hopes to support emerging initiatives, particularly in underserved regions. 

• Enhancing Advocacy: Through projects like Changing the Narrative, INSP seeks to amplify voices of lived experience, influencing policies at local and global levels. 

• Sustaining Print and Digital Synergy: By balancing traditional print with innovative digital offerings, INSP ensures its members remain adaptable and relevant. 

“Our ultimate goal,” says Mike, “is to become a hub for homelessness news, offering resources, expert insights, and credible narratives to both the media and the public.” 

How You Can Help 

Despite its impact, INSP remains underfunded, receiving minimal donations annually. Yet, there are many ways to support its work: 

• Donate: No matter how small, financial contributions help sustain INSP’s initiatives. 

• Volunteer: Whether through translation, writing, or event support, volunteers are integral to INSP’s operations. 

• Advocate: Share stories from street papers and raise awareness about their mission. 

• Read: Many people buy the street papers to support the cause, but they also admit to never actually reading the paper. Read it. Enjoy it. You won’t regret it, the stories are inspiring and thought provoking. 

By supporting INSP, individuals can play a part in breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness, one story at a time. 

Opportunities

International Network of Street Papers secures funds to launch new journalistic training programme aimed at people who have experienced homelessness and poverty.

The International Network of Street Papers is now seeking participants from Glasgow and the surrounding area for a new and exciting journalistic training programme aimed at redressing the narrative on homelessness and poverty.

As the Scottish charity representing all printed newspapers and magazines sold globally by people experiencing homelessness and poverty, including The Big Issue, INSP is uniquely placed to deliver this programme.

People with direct experience of homelessness and poverty in Glasgow and the surrounding area are now being invited to join a cohort of other learners over the course of two months. They will undertake journalism and storytelling workshops with professionals from the media industry, as well as other inspiring speakers and authors, many of whom have their own experiences to share.

Participants will be invited to write and tell their own stories – be it a personal story, a creative writing piece or a news article – and will be paid for any articles published. INSP intends to distribute these articles through its own global newswire, the INSP News Service, which sends out news stories to all 92 street paper organisations globally.

Anyone with an interest in this project, should send 150 on why they would want to participate to Niamh Brook at INSP: niamhb@insp.ngo.