‘Blues into Brews’ – take a supportive cuppa on the most difficult day in the year

Swindon & District Samaritans are encouraging people throughout the area to beat Blue Monday by getting together for a supportive cuppa on Monday 20 January for ‘Brew Monday’.

Dubbed ‘the most difficult day of the year’, the third monday in January is when the Samartians aim to turn ‘Blues into Brews’.  The charity is turning this day’s reputation on its head and is hoping to banish the January blues by encouraging friends, family and work mates to have a chat over a brew and raise some funds so they can continue to support anyone who is struggling to cope.

The UK’s much-loved tea brand PG Tips, is pledging its support to Brew Monday by asking the nation to come together and share a cuppa with someone who may be lonely.  Samaritans will also support PG Tips on their new TV campaign, which will see the charity featured across national TV, Heart Radio and on Twitter and Facebook.

Located on Curtis Road, the Swindon branch of Samaritans currently has over 80 volunteers helping to answer some of the millions of calls for help that Samaritans responds to every year from people going through a difficult time. Swindon & District Samaritans also provides other support within the community through outreach work, including at Erlestoke Prison and local schools.

Darren Tee, volunteer director at Swindon & District Samaritans says: “During the cold and grey winter months, connecting with others over a cuppa can help weather the ups and downs of life. Anyone can hold a Brew Monday event at work, at home, wherever and whenever you like – all you need is a kettle and some mugs, and this could make a huge difference in someone’s life.”

To help and find out how to get involved with Brew Monday and raise much needed funds and support for Swindon & District Samaritans call them on 01793 526430 or email:  swindon@samaritans.org

Alternatively visit www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday and sign up for a free fundraising pack that includes a handful of exclusive Samaritans tea bags.

To find out about volunteering for Swindon Samaritans visit: www.samaritans.org/volunteer-us