Train operator Northern along with others have joined Samaritans in encouraging people to connect up with a virtual cuppa for ‘Brew Monday’

The third Monday in January is sometimes known as ‘Blue Monday’, and the Samaritans hope to turn the time of year into something positive by getting people to connect with friends, family and colleagues.

Author and illustrator Charlie Mackesy is supporting the campaign with a new illustration of Mole from his bestselling book The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.

The image shows mole sharing a slice of cake with a friend.

The Samaritans have worked with the British Transport Police and the rail industry to reduce suicides for over 10 years. There are now over 22,000 BTP and railway staff who are trained to look out for passengers and chat to them if they feel vulnerable.

You can find out more at samaritans.org/brewmonday or join the conversation on social media using #BrewMonday

Brian Currie, People Director at Northern, said: “One of our key goals is to make a positive impact in the north of England and we hope that by joining Samaritans on Brew Monday we can reach out to those who are feeling particularly vulnerable at this time of year.”

“Samaritans has trained many of our frontline staff to spot someone who might be vulnerable, giving them the confidence to simply start a conversation which could help save a life, so we’re encouraging staff and passengers to put that into practice this winter and connect over a socially-distanced brew.”

Julie Bentley, Samaritans’ CEO, said: “We’re so grateful to the rail industry for their support of Brew Monday this year. The challenges that many people face during this season have been felt even more acutely this year with the pandemic restrictions. At Samaritans, we know how powerful talking and listening, even if it is virtually, can be. It doesn’t have to be a Monday or a cup of tea, it’s about taking the time to really listen and supporting one another, which could potentially save a life.”

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