Brew Monday: Three UK and Samaritans call for 'Tea Leave' wellbeing breaks

UK workers are being encouraged to step away from their desks and reconnect with colleagues as part of a renewed push on workplace wellbeing, led by mobile network Three UK and mental health charity Samaritans.

The call comes as new research suggests that long hours spent at desks are becoming the norm rather than the exception. More than a third of British workers (35%) say they rarely leave the office during the working day, while nearly half (49%) report that the only regular reason they move away from their desk is to use the toilet.

Launched to coincide with Brew Monday on 19 January 2026, the initiative seeks to reframe conversations around “Blue Monday” by encouraging informal check-ins over tea or coffee. Brew Monday is an annual campaign supported by Samaritans, aimed at reducing isolation and encouraging people to talk openly about how they are feeling.

As part of this year’s activity, Three UK is calling on employers to consider introducing a short, no-questions-asked “Tea Leave” break, giving staff up to 30 minutes to step outside, make a drink and connect with others, either in person or remotely.

The proposal reflects findings from the same research, which indicate that informal breaks play a significant role in workplace relationships. Seven in ten office workers said tea or coffee breaks often act as a catalyst for meaningful conversations with colleagues, while almost three quarters (73%) said these moments of connection are important for their mental wellbeing at work.

By comparison, fewer respondents said structured initiatives such as dedicated wellbeing spaces (61%) or team-building days (55%) had the same impact.

The findings also point to ongoing challenges around openness and mental health at work. One in four workers said they do not feel confident discussing their mental health with colleagues, underlining the continued need for low-pressure opportunities to connect.

Alongside the campaign, mental health advocate Dr Alex George has shared guidance on how everyday conversations can be used to check in on others, particularly during busy working days when formal support can feel out of reach.

The focus on breaks appears to resonate with employees themselves. More than three quarters of workers said they want to make better use of their breaks this year, and a similar proportion believe doing so would have a positive effect on their wellbeing. Looking ahead to 2026, respondents said they plan to spend more break time outdoors, staying in touch with friends and family, and making video calls to loved ones.

While Brew Monday activities include consumer incentives through Three’s rewards platform, the campaign’s central message aligns with broader concerns raised by charities and campaigners: that small, everyday moments of connection can play a meaningful role in supporting mental health, particularly in increasingly pressured workplaces.

Dr Alex George said: “I know first-hand how easy it is to let the day slip away from you when you’re at work, but making time away from your desk can play a huge role in supporting our mental health. This Brew Monday, I’m teaming up with Three and Samaritans to launch their ‘Tea Leave’ campaign – a 30-minute wellbeing break to reconnect with others.

“It’s a brilliant reminder that something as simple as a meaningful chat over a cuppa – whether by phone or face to face – and some fresh air can help us feel more connected and less alone.”

Nicki Lyons, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, VodafoneThree, said: “Today, we are launching our ‘Tea Leave’ initiative, in support of Samaritans and ‘Brew’ Monday, to help champion more positive wellbeing in the workplace.

“Alongside this, I am pleased to announce that Three has reached its fundraising milestone of £1million to support the incredible work of the charity, Samaritans, renowned for its commitment to emotional support.”

Julie Bentley, CEO, Samaritans, said: “Samaritans created Brew Monday because we know there’s no such thing as ‘Blue Monday’, and that feeling low isn’t the norm just because it’s January. It’s important we bust this myth and remind people to reach out for support and open up if they are finding things tough, no matter what time of year it is.

“Three’s ‘Tea Leave’ initiative is a great way to make sure we’re all building in time to check in with each other and have a real conversation. Moments of human connection can be life-changing to someone who might be struggling, so we hope everyone takes their ‘Tea Leave’ on Brew Monday and beyond.”

Whether at work or at home, Three customers can benefit from an extra perk this week (19 – 25 January), to connect over a cuppa with a colleague, friend or loved one. Three+ members can enjoy two hot drinks for just £1 across the brand’s £1 Coffee Network – barista-made drinks at coffee shops across hundreds of locations, any size and any milk. From coffees and teas to hot chocolate and iced drinks, there’s never been a better excuse for a ‘Tea Leave’ break, thanks to Three.

Research carried out across 2,000 British workers aged 18+ years old, by 3Gem on behalf of Three between 9 – 12 January 2026.