Great Western Railway, Network Rail and Samaritans join forces for Brew Monday and urge everyone to catch-up for a cuppa with the people they care about
Today (Monday) is known by some as ‘blue Monday’ but Great Western Railway, Network Rail and Samaritans have joined forces for Brew Monday instead.
And they’re urging everyone to catch-up for a cuppa with the people you care about.
A giant 6.5ft teacup was carried across the GWR network this morning, stopping off at key locations to have a chat and raise awareness.
Samaritans has long campaigned to dispel the idea that the third Monday of January is particularly difficult, as it said it could discourage people from seeking life-changing help.
The suicide prevention charity’s listening volunteers are consistently busy every day of the year, responding to a call for help every 10 seconds, which is why it is again working with the rail industry to turn the day into something useful by running Brew Monday.
The annual event encourages friends and family to stay connected by having a cuppa and a catch-up, and this year has been no different.
GWR’s HR director, Ashley Bray, said: “We’re really proud to support Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign again this year and spread this important message to our passengers and staff. We’re trying to make it as visible as we possibly can.
“Samaritans has worked in partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry for 15 years to encourage the public and our staff to recognise the power of human connection – and ultimately start a conversation which could save a life.”
Head of Samaritans’ rail programme, Olivia Cayley, added: “There’s no right or wrong way to check in on those you care about – it doesn’t matter if it’s over the phone, in person, with tea or without – the important thing is to check in and connect with those you care about.
“We know first-hand what a difference those moments of human connection can make to those who are struggling.”
Anyone seeking support at the moment can contact the following organisations.
Samaritans: www.samaritans.org – call 116 123 – email jo@samaritans.org
Time to Talk: www.t2twb.org or call (01635) 760331. You can also find help and advice on the charity’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (all @t2twb) or by emailing hello@t2twb.org
You can visit www.recoveryinmind.org and find a number of resources to help you look after your mental health.
Eight Bells for Mental Health: www.eightbellsnewbury.co.uk – call 07387 962220 – email coordinator@eightbellsnewbury.co.uk
Mental Health Crisis Team – call if you need urgent help, but it’s not an emergency 0300 365 0300 or 0300 365 9999
Sane Line – www.sane.org.uk – call 0300 304 700
Childline: www.childline.org.uk – 0800 1111
Mind: www.mind.org.uk – 0300 123 3393 or text 86463
