Join Bedford Samaritans for a virtual cuppa this Brew Monday

Bedford Samaritans would like everyone to connect over a virtual cuppa this Brew Monday.

They aim to help local people in Bedford Borough become better listeners with virtual 'Learn to Listen' events on 18th January in a bid to beat the winter blues.

Bedford Samaritans is encouraging the community to reach out to someone they care about and connect over a virtual cuppa this winter for Brew Monday. Winter has a reputation for being one of the hardest seasons, with many finding it difficult to deal with the darker days and cold weather as well as this year the added complications of Lockdown restrictions.

Samaritans new research with over 1,400 of the charity's volunteers found that the start of the cold days and long nights have heightened feelings of isolation and loneliness for those already experiencing loneliness due to the pandemic restrictions. To ensure that nobody struggles alone, Samaritans is asking people to check in with those they care about for a cuppa and chat - and a biscuit or two.

Bedford Samaritans will be kicking off Brew Monday on Monday 18th January, the third Monday in January which is sometimes known as 'Blue Monday' for being the most difficult day of the year. The branch will be turning this day on its head and into something positive by encouraging people to get together over a warming virtual cuppa and a chat.

Rachel, Bedford Branch Director said "It has been a winter like no other. The challenges that many people face during this season have been felt more acutely this year with the pandemic. There couldn't be a better time to reach out for a chat with someone you care about. It doesn't have to be a Monday or a cup of tea, it's just about taking time to really listen to another person which can in turn help them work through what's on their mind."

Bedford Samaritans know how powerful listening can be. Listening helps build relationships, be there for others and it can save lives. Through their virtual event, Bedford Samaritans hope that they can help more people to support others and make a difference. Volunteers will be helping their community to become better listeners this Brew Monday with the launch of its first online 'Learn to Listen' event on 18th January at 10:30am and 3:30pm. People can find out more about the work of Samaritans and learn how to be a good listener in the virtual session. To register for a free place, email: bedfordsamaritans@hotmail.co.uk

Bedford Samaritans are also inviting people to organise a virtual tea party this Brew Monday and help Bedford volunteers continue to be there for anyone who needs a listening ear by raising vital funds for Samaritans. To make a donation to support Bedford Samaritans please visit www.samaritans.org/bedford

Alternatively you can donate by text: Text 5SAMS to 70085 to donate £5, Text 10SAMS to 70085 to donate £10 (text cost donation plus one standard rate message) Join the conversation on social media using #BrewMonday and why not make a donation while you're there, you could help save a life.

Anyone can contact Samaritans FREE any time from any phone on 116 123, even a mobile without credit. This number won't show up on your phone bill. Or you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org. Every seven seconds, Samaritans responds to a call for help.

Samaritans is a charity and it's the public's kind donations and more than 20,000 volunteers that mean we are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us or volunteer with us.

You can follow Samaritans on social media on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.