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For the first time, the UK’s largest rail company, Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), has hosted yoga classes on London Blackfriars station balcony to raise vital funds for the mental health charity, Mind. Customers and GTR colleagues joined three unique morning sessions on Wednesday, 16 July above the River Thames, where they took a moment to pause, breath and reconnect at the Thameslink station. Research shows that many people find yoga beneficial to their mental health, and it can be effective in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression when practised regularly and alongside other treatments, according to Mind.
With one in four people experiencing a mental health problem every year, GTR is supporting Mind through a dedicated three-year partnership which aims to raise £100,000 for the charity, while removing the stigma attached to mental health. The rail operator has already raised more than £63,000 for Mind – GTR’s charity partner – since the partnership was launched in July 2024.
GTR’s Corporate Social Responsibility Manager, Tracy Jarvis, who organised the yoga sessions with Mind, said: “As someone who is passionate about mental health and wellbeing, I’m thrilled we could host these classes at Blackfriars station to give customers and staff the chance to enjoy a bit of mindfulness, while taking in the stunning views of the city. We carry millions of people on our services every day, so we have a responsibility to look out for those travelling across our network. “We’re hoping our partnership with Mind will help raise awareness of the support that’s available, but also that it’s okay to talk about mental health and to ask for help.”
Anita Tamamovic, who led the yoga classes and works for Mind, said: “We’re delighted that GTR are hosting yoga sessions, and it was an honour to lead the classes. We know that yoga, and being active in general, can be beneficial to mental health and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. “It’s also a difficult time, with many of us now feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on our mental health and wellbeing, especially those of us with existing mental health problems. The money raised allows us to keep our vital services running such as Mind Infoline, legal line, support line and our online peer support community for adults, Side by Side.”
GTR’s partnership with the mental health charity is one way the business is extending mental health support to its staff. The company has the largest in-house occupational health team, delivering more than 15,000 in-person appointments each year for a range of health concerns.
To further support colleagues, GTR has a cohort of trained trauma practitioners who offer confidential peer-based support for any employees who have been exposed to a traumatic incident. The scheme has shown to reduce the likelihood of staff developing post-traumatic stress disorder following a traumatic event.
To donate to GTR’s team fundraising page for Mind, click here.
Notes to editors
About Mind Mind, the mental health charity, provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding. They won't give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both support and respect. mind.org.uk Mind has several mental health helplines:
The ongoing cost-of-living crisis is affecting many people's mental health. For more information on managing money and your mental health, visit the Mind website Mind’s online mental health community Side by Side is a safe space where anyone aged 18 and over with experience of a mental health problem can share their story, connect with others, access Mind’s wider information and resources, and give support in return. Find out more at www.sidebyside.mind.org.uk |
UK’s largest rail operator hosts first yoga class over the Thames in aid of Mind
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