The Friends of Honiton Station participated in an event as part of the national ‘Brew Monday’ campaign to remind passengers that stations are warm, welcoming and inclusive spaces for the whole community.
On Brew Monday, the third Monday in January, Samaritans reminds everyone to reach out for a cuppa and a catch-up with the people you care about.
As part of the event, the volunteers – supported by South Western Railway station staff – spoke with passengers, gave out information on starting a conversation about mental health and, to help the conversation along, gave out free Samaritans-branded tea bags.
Martin Long, chair of the Friends of Honiton Station, said: “Encouraging the community to support one another, and signposting local organisations that can offer help and support, is central to everything we do. For instance, each of the planters at the station represents a local community group and has contact information nearby on how to access their services.
“Taking part in Brew Monday is another important way in which we can help connect the station to the community, and the community to the station.”
Launching the event at Honiton Station, a spokesperson for the Samaritans said: “Today’s the day. The day you put the kettle on. The day small talk turns into big talk. The day you break open the biscuits and the taboos. The day you remind everyone how good human connection feels. How easy it is. And what a difference it can make.”
Paula Aldridge, community rail manager for South Western Railway, said: “Brew Monday is an important campaign to remind people what a difference human connection can make, which the rail industry has been supporting since 2010.
“This year, we’re continuing to spread the message to our customers and colleagues of the value of a cuppa and a catch-up.”
Visit the Samaritans website to access support and guidance on mental health and starting simple conversations that could save a life.
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Friends of Honiton Station via their website.