LNER backs Samaritans’ Brew Monday campaign with hot drink donation

London North Eastern Railway (LNER) is marking Samaritans’ Brew Monday by donating all proceeds from the sale of hot drinks on its trains today, Monday 19 January 2026, to the charity, helping to raise awareness of the importance of connection and conversation.

The third Monday in January is often referred to as ‘Blue Monday’ and is frequently – and wrongly – described as the most difficult day of the year. Six years ago, Samaritans set out to challenge that narrative by rebranding the day as Brew Monday, encouraging people to pause, share a cup of tea or coffee, and check in with one another.

LNER has been supporting the campaign for several years. In 2025, the operator raised £6,800 – its highest Brew Monday total to date – bringing its overall fundraising for Samaritans to £21,000. This year, the company hopes to exceed that figure, with customers who purchase a hot drink on board also receiving a complimentary blueberry muffin as a thank you for taking part.

The total amount raised will be announced on LNER’s social media channels tomorrow, Tuesday 20 January 2026.

As part of the day’s activities, Samaritans listening volunteers were present at stations across the network, speaking to passengers and encouraging them to see the day differently – as an opportunity to slow down, connect, and reach out to friends, family or colleagues.

Brew Monday is part of Samaritans’ wider efforts to remind people that difficult feelings can arise at any time of year, and that small moments of connection can make a meaningful difference.

Gill McKay, Customer Experience Engagement Manager at LNER, said: “LNER is proud to support Samaritans and its Brew Monday campaign. We all know January can feel like a long month for many people, but anyone can feel vulnerable on any day – not just the third Monday of the year. We also know the amazing effect a cuppa and a chat can have, with millions of conversations taking place on our trains over a hot drink. It’s important to spread the message that you are not alone, and taking a moment to pause with a friend can make a positive difference to the day, whatever the date.”

Ellie Cavilla, Regional Development Lead at Samaritans, said: “This Brew Monday, we’re encouraging everyone to put the kettle on and remember how important a bit of human connection is and what a difference it can make to people’s wellbeing. And we’re so grateful to the LNER for supporting our campaign and helping us to spread this message. 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. It’s vital that we all take the time to check in on each other every day. So, let’s pop on those kettles and turn small talk into big talk. It might just save someone’s life.”