Thameslink brings back 'Brew Train' with Samaritans to get people together for a cuppa and catch up

Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which runs Southern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express and Great Northern services, is once again working with Samaritans to flip Blue Monday on its head by encouraging people to reach out to loved ones this month.

Brew Monday was developed by the charity to dispel the myth that there is one day of the year commonly believed to be more difficult than any other. Working with partners, such as GTR, Samaritans aim to get people catching up over a cup of tea.

To help spread positive messages about the campaign, volunteers have been out and about on the Thameslink network this morning handing out tea bags, biscuits and leaflets to customers travelling on the East Coast Main Line.

The specially named ‘Brew Train’ travelled from Peterborough to St Pancras International and was joined by volunteers from GTR and Samaritans, as well as volunteers from dedicated suicide prevention charities, Andy’s Man Club and The Jordan Legacy. Thameslink partners, Luton Town Football Club, were also involved in the activity with Academy players speaking to travellers as they passed through St Pancras International.

Brew Monday hopes to encourage people to get together for a cuppa this month, while signposting to support for those who may be struggling at this time of year.

In addition to the ‘Brew Train’, people looking for support can talk to Samaritans volunteers who will be at the following stations all day today:

Elstree & Borehamwood

Winchmore Hill

Oakleigh Park

West Hampstead

Bognor Regis

Chichester

Horsham

Three Bridges

GTR’s Security Improvement Manager, Hannah Lindsay, said: “We’re delighted to be working with the Samaritans again to encourage customers to have positive conversations. With the cold weather and shorter days, January can be a difficult time for many, but we can start this year on the right foot by taking the time to listen to one another.

“We’re also encouraging our staff to get involved in Brew Monday by making time to catch-up with each other over a cuppa. Simple gestures like saying ‘hello’ or picking up the phone to check in with a loved one can really brighten someone’s day, so let’s make sure we look out for each other this Brew Monday.”

Olivia Cayley, Head of Rail Programme at Samaritans, said: “We’re reminding the public that human connection can be lifesaving and we’re so grateful to Govia Thameslink Railway for their support this year. Our volunteers are busy all year round, answering a call for help every 10 seconds, so we know people can find things tough at any time and there’s no such thing as the ‘worst day of the year’. That’s why it’s vital that we all take the time to check in on each other every day.

"Whether it’s over a cup of tea or going for a walk, the important thing is that you share how you’re feeling and really listen so anyone who might be struggling knows they don’t have to face their challenges alone.”

Player Care Officer at Luton Town Football Club, Wayne Polson, commented: "As a community-focused club, Luton Town FC is proud to support Thameslink and the Samaritans in their Brew Monday initiative. Mental health is an important issue that impacts everyone, including young people in sports. Starting a conversation over a simple cup of tea can make a world of difference, and events like these remind us of the importance of connection and support.

“Our Academy players were honoured to join the Brew Monday initiative, where they not only shared uplifting conversations with passengers but also gained valuable insight into the importance of mental health and wellbeing. Initiatives like this encourage open dialogue about mental health, equipping our players with the tools to support themselves and their teammates throughout their journeys in football and beyond.”