Marvin OnumonuThree UK and Samaritans called for ‘Tea Leave’ wellbeing breaks for British workers on Brew Monday, today, 19th January.
Research found 35% of British workers rarely left the office during the day, and 49% said only a loo break pulled them away from their desk.
Three UK encouraged employers to bring in a ‘Tea Leave’ initiative, supporting Brew Monday, Samaritans’ annual campaign to flip ‘Blue Monday’ on its head and get people talking over a cuppa.
The Three+ rewards app offered customers two £1 hot drinks at cafés and coffee shops for a chat.
70% of workers said stepping outside for a tea or coffee break had led to some of their most meaningful conversations with colleagues.
73% agreed these moments of connection played a crucial role in supporting mental wellbeing at work, more than dedicated wellbeing spaces (61%) and team building days (55%).
A quarter (25%) of workers said they did not feel confident discussing their mental health with colleagues.
Three UK encouraged its employees to take a no-questions-asked 30-minute ‘Tea Leave’ break to get fresh air, enjoy a cuppa and connect, either by phone or in person.
77% said they wanted to make more of their breaks and 76% believed it would have a positive impact on their wellbeing at work.
Workers planned to use breaks in 2026 to get outside more (44%), respond to texts from friends and family (20%), and video call loved ones more often (18%).
Nicki Lyons, chief corporate affairs and sustainability officer at 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 at 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.”
Bentley added: “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.”
