Victoria Park, Healthcare Group and Guernsey Mind join forces for Brew Monday

^{Pictured: Rob Jones, Amanda Hibbs, Marvin Odillard.}

Islanders are being invited to unite for a cuppa and a chat as Victoria Park, Healthcare Group and  Guernsey Mind team up to host ‘Brew Monday’ on Monday 19th January at Nutmeg. Linked to the annual campaign promoted by the Samaritans, Brew Monday offers a positive alternative to the idea of Blue Monday, the third Monday in January often labelled ‘the most depressing day of the year’.

Amanda Hibbs, from Guernsey Mind, said: “Brew Monday is a Samaritans campaign that encourages people to reach out, share a cuppa, and have a meaningful conversation to help combat loneliness and support mental wellbeing. It turns the idea of ‘Blue Monday’ on its head - a term originally coined as a marketing gimmick - and reminds us that feeling low can happen at any time. A simple chat and genuine connection can really help.”

The drop-in event will run from 12pm – 2pm on Monday 19th January, with Nutmeg providing a warm and welcoming space for anyone to drop in, relax, chat and enjoy a complimentary hot drink. Guernsey Mind’s trained mental health first aiders will be on hand at the event if anyone does want a confidential chat or signposting to further support, but there will be no pressure to talk.

Dr Sally Richardson, GP at Healthcare Group, said: “January can feel quite heavy for some people, and while low mood certainly doesn’t follow a calendar, this period after Christmas can be difficult. “We know that early conversations about mental health are incredibly valuable and can be the starting point for getting the right support. This event is all about reminding people that reaching out and simply sharing a cup of tea with someone can make a real difference.”

Rob Jones, Director at Victoria Park said: “Nutmeg and Victoria Park are community spaces at heart, so it felt right to be hosting an event like this where people will hopefully come together and have a chat. We’re very much about bringing islanders together, and through this joint initiative, we hope that we can help banish the winter blues while offering support, advice and companionship to those who might need it.”

The Brew Monday event is free and open to all. Islanders can drop in any time between 12pm and 2pm on Monday 19 January at Nutmeg, Victoria Park.

In addition to the event at Nutmeg, Victoria Park, Guernsey Mind and Guernsey Samaritans have teamed up to host two other drop ins on 19th January. They will be at Flourish Café at Grow from 10.30am-12pm and at Swallows Café at Les Cotils 4-6pm. More details at www.guernseymind.org.gg.