Brews to beat the blues: TransPennine Express (TPE) offers free drinks onboard to support Samaritans’ Brew Monday

TPE is inviting customers to enjoy a free hot drink onboard its services next week on Monday 20 January to support Samaritans’ Brew Monday, a campaign encouraging people to take a moment to check in on their friends, family, or colleagues during the dark January days.

Customers traveling across the North of England and into Scotland on Monday 20 January will be treated to a comforting cup of tea or a delicious coffee (where catering is available), completely free of charge.

The train operator is calling on passengers to make Brew Monday a day of connection and care. Whether it’s sharing a cuppa with a friend or catching up with a colleague, TPE hopes that small gestures like these can make a big difference in supporting mental wellbeing.

Samaritans’ Brew Monday is aimed at tackling the commonly held belief that the third Monday of January is the ‘most depressing day of the year’ – often referred to as ‘Blue Monday.’

Andrew McClements, Customer Experience and Transformation Director said “While we know that when it comes to mental health, there is no ‘one size fits all’ day or reason for why someone might be struggling, we want to remind people to check in with each other.

"TPE is proud to be part of the communities across the north of England and Scotland and we’re glad to offer a free hot drink to our customers this Monday and encourage them to take the time to have a chat with someone they care about, and support each other.”

Olivia Cayley, Head of Rail Programme at Samaritans, said: “On Brew Monday we’re reminding the public that human connection can be lifesaving and we’re so grateful to the rail industry for their support this year.

“Our volunteers are busy all year round, answering a call for help every 10 seconds, so we know people can find things tough at any time and there’s no such thing as the ‘worst day of the year.’

“That’s why it’s vital that we all take the time to check in on each other every day. Whether it’s over a cup of tea, going for a walk or having a chat over the phone, the important thing is that you share how you’re feeling and really listen so anyone who might be struggling knows they don’t have to face their challenges alone.”

In addition to the free drinks available onboard, representatives from TPE, British Transport Police (BTP), and Samaritans will be at the following TPE stations: Hull, Northallerton, and Manchester Airport.

They will be offering a warm drink and an opportunity to chat, while raising awareness about the support services available and emphasising the importance of checking in on one another.

For more information about Samaritans' Brew Monday campaign, please visit: samaritans.org/support-us/campaign/brew-monday/

If you need someone to talk to the Samaritans can support: samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/