Our thoughts are with the friends and family of Ali Schofield, Big Issue North columnist, who died on 4 April after a long illness.
Ali wrote the She Has Issues column from May 2016 until 5 March this year, never missing a deadline despite her illness and always turning in columns of humanity and humour that appealed to readers of all ages and interests.
A freelance journalist, Ali, 34, contributed to the Guardian, Stylist, Marie Claire, Psychologies and other publications, and wrote features for Big Issue North before taking up the columnist’s role.
She lived in Steeton, near Bradford, with her partner Tim and dog Rabbit (pictured).
Sophie Haydock, also a freelance journalist and Big Issue North contributor, says: “Ali Schofield was an inspiring woman and a talented journalist. We met around eight years ago at Leeds Guide magazine. The friendship was instant. Her warmth, sharp humour and love of brightly patterned clothing set her apart.
“She was never afraid to share her opinions, which made her a brilliant columnist, and I loved reading her missives in Big Issue North, on topics ranging from saving the NHS from profit-driven shareholders to the #MeToo movement.
“She also never missed an opportunity to share her passion for animals and nature. She might be found helping migrating toads cross the road, protesting grouse shooting on Ilkley Moor or walking her rescue dog, Rabbit. She also admirably wrote about her own cancer.
“Ali was brilliantly intelligent, curious and deeply enjoyed life. It’s an immeasurable sadness to know I won’t be seeing her again or reading any more of her work.”
