Boro Academy players share cheery char on Thameslink’s Brew Monday special

Members of Stevenage FC’s Academy joined Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) on the rail operator’s ‘Brew Train’ yesterday [15 January] to support the Samaritans’ annual Brew Monday campaign.

As part of the club’s longstanding partnership with Thameslink, the young footballers volunteered alongside railway staff to hand out teabags, biscuits and leaflets to passengers on the 0926 from Peterborough to Horsham.

The Samaritans aim to turn ‘Blue Monday’, commonly believed to be the most difficult day of the year, into ‘Brew Monday’, with its positive associations of a cheery cuppa and a convivial chat. Initiatives such as the Brew Train are encouraging people to get together for that char-and-chinwag this month, whilst raising awareness of how those who might be struggling at this time of year can find support.

British Transport Police (BTP) and dedicated suicide prevention charities Andy’s Man Club and The Jordan Legacy also took part in the on-board activities.

People looking for support were invited to talk to Samaritans volunteers at Luton, Welwyn Garden City, East Croydon and Three Bridges stations on Monday, at Hitchin today [Tuesday 16 January], and at St Neots tomorrow [Friday 19^th January].

GTR’s Safeguarding and Wellbeing Manager, Laura Campbell, said: “Together with our partners, we want to help the Samaritans bust the ‘Blue Monday’ myth and instead use the day as a time to connect with our passengers and start positive conversations. January can be a tough month for many with Christmas and New Year celebrations behind us, but it doesn’t have to be a miserable time if we get together and support each other.”

Jorden Gibson, Stevenage FC Academy Manager, said: “We were delighted to be able to support Thameslink on ‘Brew Monday’. Stevenage FC are committed to the well-being of our players, supporters and the broader community. We believe it is imperative to address the challenges associated with mental health and contribute to fostering a supportive environment for all. Mental health issues affect millions worldwide, and the ongoing global situation has only heightened the importance of addressing this matter.

“We understand the unique role that local football clubs play as community hubs and recognise the potential for positive impact. By proactively addressing mental health and leveraging the influence we have, we can contribute to creating a more compassionate and understanding community. We encourage our fans, partners, and fellow clubs to join us in this vital initiative by sharing conversations surrounding mental health.”

Head of Samaritans Rail Programme, Olivia Cayley, added: “We’re so grateful to the rail industry for their support of Brew Monday again this year. 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. 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.”

To find out more about Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign, visit www.samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday.

Notes to editors:

• Thameslink’s partnership with Stevenage FC, now in its tenth season, provides free travel to the club’s Academy players, many of whom could not otherwise afford to attend their training and education courses.
• Andy’s Man Club is a suicide prevention charity which aims to end the stigma surrounding men’s mental health and help men through the power of conversation.
• The Jordan Legacy was founded in 2020, in memory of Jordan Phillip, who took his own life in December 2019. The charity aims to reduce the frequency of suicides and improve mental wellbeing at work and in society.
• Anyone can contact Samaritans, free, 24/7, 365 days a year, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org.