A RAILWAY firm has teamed up with The Samaritans to turn 'Blue Monday' into 'Brew Monday'.

The third Monday in January is sometimes referred to as ‘the most difficult day of the year’ as the fun of the Christmas period has faded and dark nights and cold weather prevail.

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But the Samaritans are highlighting that there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’ as people can feel a range of emotions any day of the year.

They have teamed up with London North Eastern Railway (LNER) in a bid to encourage people to share a cuppa and a catch up with someone they care about for ‘Brew Monday’.

They hope Brew Monday will be a reminder for everyone to check in on friends, family or colleagues.

LNER, which runs trains along the 956-mile East Coast route, is supporting the campaign by raising awareness and donating to Samaritans the proceeds of all tea and coffee sales from its onboard cafe bars and trolley service.

Volunteers from Samaritans will be out at railway stations talking to people about the importance of reaching out and talking, and the ‘Brew Monday’ message will also be shared through digital station screens.

The charity has found that although winter is thought to be one of the harder seasons, its volunteers hear similar concerns all year round from people.

Julie Bentley, Samaritans’ CEO said: “We’re so grateful to the rail industry for their support of Brew Monday again this year.

"Throughout the various lockdowns and restrictions, the pandemic has shown us that staying connected with others has been a vital part of getting people through difficult times.

"We know the impact talking and listening can have, and a cup of tea and a chat won’t solve everything, but it can be a start.

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"You don’t have to have all the answers or solutions, you just need to listen and start a conversation which could just be the support that someone needs."

Claire Ansley, customer experience director at LNER, said: “We’re proud to be supporting the ‘Brew Monday’ campaign and message which encourages us all to recognise the power of human connection.

"Starting a conversation with someone may make a huge difference to them, and, in some cases may save a life."

 

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