Trending PR Campaigns
Big Issue’s Empty Homes Campaign
The Big Issue campaigned to let councils take action on homes that had been empty for six months, rather than two years. Its founder, Lord John Bird, pushed for the change through an amendment to the Social Housing Bill, helping turn the magazine’s call for action into government reform.
Why it worked: It won coverage because a clear, time-bound policy change (six months vs two years) tied to a named bill and sponsor created immediate, verifiable impact.
The lesson: Consider drafting a simple legislative tweak with a before/after stat and a credible champion, then pitch it as an imminent fix.
Coverage over time
How this story spread across the media
| Publication | Headline | Date |
|---|---|---|
| bigissue.com | How Big Issue inspired government to bring empty homes back into use | Tuesday 13th October, 2026 |