Don’t Stew – Get together for a brew, say Samaritans

Beat ‘Blue Monday’, often referred to as the most depressing day of the year, by getting together for a friendly cuppa while raising funds for Samaritans to continue providing emotional support.

The charity is declaring, January 15, Brew Monday and will be asking friends, neighbours and work colleagues to help Samaritans – Brighton, Hove and District simply by taking time out for a cuppa and a chat.

“Pick up one of our free fundraising packs from us, and you can organise your very own Brew Monday event,” says Alison Pratt, volunteer and branch director.

“Here at Brighton Samaritans we are hoping people will support Brew Monday and get together for a cuppa and a chat, and make a donation too. Funds raised will help ensure that anyone who’s feeling overwhelmed can contact our free helpline, email us, or call in at our branch to talk face to face.

“Isolation and loneliness are among the main reasons people contact Samaritans. Joining up and having tea with someone can provide a lift when dark days, cold weather, broken resolutions and credit card bills may otherwise take centre stage.”

Comedian Vic Reeves is one of a host of celebrities who are backing the campaign.

Vic said: “I love nothing more than a good brew, so Brew Monday is a great excuse to do that and also to catch up with your nearest and dearest.”

The Brighton branch volunteers will be hosting events at Brighton, Hove and Lewes train stations during peak times and offering sets of tea bags to be shared on a tea break with a friend, family member, colleague or anyone you invite to meet over a brew.

Whatever you’re going through, you can call Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123 (this number is FREE to call and will not appear on your phone bill), or you can email jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find details of your nearest branch.