Don’t be blue – have a brew, say GTR and Samaritans as 60 railway colleagues are recognised for rescuing vulnerable people

Today is often called 'Blue Monday' and is statistically recognised as one of the toughest days of the year for mental health.

GTR and Samaritans have collaborated to recognise rail heroes who have helped save the lives of vulnerable people and launch their virtual support system.

Replacing ‘Blue Monday’ with ‘Brew Monday’, the train firms of GTR - Great Northern, Southern and Thameslink - will be working with the Samaritans to turn 18 January on its head and into something positive by encouraging the public and colleagues to get together over a warming virtual cup of tea and have a chat this Winter.

Julie Bentley, Samaritans’ CEO, said: “We’re so grateful to the rail industry for their support of Brew Monday this year.

"The challenges that many people face during this season have been felt even more acutely this year with the pandemic restrictions.

"At Samaritans, we know how powerful talking and listening, even if it is virtually, can be.

"It doesn’t have to be a Monday or a cup of tea, it’s about taking the time to really listen and supporting one another, which could potentially save a life.”

GTR Suicide Prevention Manager Laura Campbell said: “The third Monday of January can be difficult.

"Christmas and New Year’s celebrations are long gone, credit card bills are landing on the doormat, days are short and cold and – worst of all – we’ve a Covid pandemic and national lockdown.

“As well as promoting this great Samaritans initiative to passengers across our network, we’ll be encouraging our own staff, who are out on the front line, to share a socially-distanced or virtual cup of tea with British Transport Police and Network Rail colleagues, while keeping the service running for other key workers.”

60 rail workers have been recognised for their amazing work with vulnerable people, you can read their stories here.

GTR works side-by-side with charities such as the Samaritans to train and offer support and guidance for its staff when dealing with difficult scenarios, and with Network Rail and the British Transport Police to support people across its network.

Additionally, TRiM (Trauma Risk Management) training, as well as occupational health and further support is provided to all employees so that they are able to look after passengers, themselves and each other.

Last year, across the network there were 426 GTR interventions, with an impressive 57% increase in lifesaving interventions since 2019.

To learn more about the 'Don't be blue have a brew' campaign click this link.