In line with other train operators, Greater Anglia will be encouraging its colleagues and passengers to have a cuppa and a catch-up for the Samaritans charity’s annual Brew Monday campaign next Monday.

Greater Anglia with Samaritans will help people contend with winter weather, the post-Christmas slump, and other pressures on the third Monday of January which is accepted as the saddest day of the year, otherwise known as ‘Blue Monday’.

The annual Brew Monday event encourages friends and family to stay connected by having a cuppa and a catch-up.

To help celebrate the event, Greater Anglia staff will join Samaritans volunteers at stations across Greater Anglia’s network next, Monday 15 January, handing out teabags and chatting to passengers about the power of connecting over a cuppa.

Brew Monday events will take place at:

• London Liverpool Street 10.00 to 14.00, next to Combat 2 Coffee;
• Cambridge 07.30 to 09.30, 16.00 to 18.00;
• Lowestoft 10.00 to 14.00;
• Colchester 06.00 to 08.00;
• Harlow Town 07.00 to 09.00;
• Bishops Stortford 07.00 to 09.00;
• Ely 07.30 to 09.30, 16.00 to 18.00.

Samaritans can be contacted by anyone, at any time, free from any phone on 116 123, email [email protected], or at samaritans.org.

Georgia Payne, Greater Anglia’s Safeguarding and Trespass Prevention Lead, said: “We are really proud to be supporting Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign again this year and spreading this important message to our passengers and staff.

“Samaritans has worked in partnership with Network Rail and the wider rail industry since 2010 encouraging the public and our staff to recognise the power of human connection and start a conversation which could save a life.

“We are putting that into practice and helping to bust the Blue Monday myth over a brew.”

Olivia Cayley, Head of Samaritans Rail Programme, said: “At Samaritans, we know there is no such thing as Blue Monday and people can feel low at any point of the week or year.

“Perpetuating ‘Blue Monday’ may put off reaching for life-changing help if they think everyone else is also feeling down.

“It could also lead people to think they ought to be feeling sad, or believe other people are in worse situations. We do not want anyone to dismiss or minimise the challenging issues they’re facing.

“We want everyone to know that you are never alone and even small moments of human connection like this can play a big role in helping people who are currently struggling.”

“We are so grateful to the rail industry for their support of Brew Monday again this year.

“Our volunteers are available around the clock to listen to anyone who needs support this Brew Monday and every other day of the year, 24/7.”