January gets some bad press, home as it is to huge credit card bills, failed fitness programmes, broken New Year’s resolutions, cold weather and what’s known as ‘Blue Monday’, the day that has been dubbed the most depressing day of the year, which falls on January 16th this year.

But Southport & District Samaritans is saying forget Blue Monday and have a ‘Brew Monday’ - take time out for a simple cuppa and a chat with a friend, colleague or family member and do something practical for someone who may be struggling, maybe let them know Samaritans’ free to call helpline number (116 123) is available every day of the year.

Charlotte, a volunteer at the Southport branch said: “Health, family, work, relationships and money issues, or feelings of loneliness, isolation or uncertainty could be making life really tough. Samaritan’s ‘Brew Monday’ gives us all the chance to sit down with a friend and talk to them, or listen to them.”

If you want to make an even bigger difference in 2017, why not think about donating money or perhaps your time to help keep the life-saving services going. There is an Information Evening at the Southport branch on Sunday 22nd January at 7pm for potential listeners and also for supporting volunteers, with roles ranging from administration to fundraising. Charlotte said; “Since becoming a Samaritan listener, a family member said to me that they always feel like I am really listening to them, and what a lovely feeling that is.”

For more information about Brew Monday or the Information Evening, please contact southportsamaritans@gmail.com