Press release -
UK’s largest rail operator hosts first yoga class over the Thames in aid of Mind
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, breathe 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.
ENDS
Notes to editors
- To date, GTR has raised £66,361 for Mind through sponsored events and donations
- 500 colleagues have been actively involved in an array of activities including, Move for Mind, company walks, football events, quiz nights, and cycle challenges during its partnership with the mental health charity
- Govia Thameslink Railway chose Mind as its corporate charity partner in July 2024, and over the course of the three-year partnership the company is aiming to raise £100,000. This will go towards funding the helpline, producing vital tools and resources, and providing access to mental health experts.
- The partnership aims to increase awareness of the mental health emergency in the UK and offer support to GTR customers and communities.
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:
- Mind support line: advisors are trained to listen and help find specialist support if needed. Call 0300 102 1234 (lines open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).
- Mind Infoline: a confidential information and support line available on 0300 123 3393 (lines open 9am - 6pm, Monday – Friday)
- Welfare benefits line: for anyone with mental health problems who is navigating the benefits and welfare system. Call 0300 222 5782 (lines open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday).
- Legal line: offers legal information and general advice on mental health related law in England and Wales. Call 0300 466 6463 (lines open 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).
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
Related links
Topics
Categories
For more information, contact the press office on 0203 750 2031.
Govia Thameslink Railway
Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) operates Thameslink, Great Northern, Southern and Gatwick Express services as follows:
- Thameslink – cross-London services between Bedford/Peterborough/Cambridge and Brighton/Horsham/East Grinstead, and between Luton/St Albans and Sutton/Wimbledon/Rainham; plus services between London and Sevenoaks
- Great Northern – services between London and Welwyn, Hertford, Peterborough, Cambridge and King’s Lynn
- Southern – services between London and the Sussex coast (Brighton, Worthing, Eastbourne, Bognor Regis, Hastings) and parts of Surrey, Kent and Hampshire (Ashford International, Southampton, Portsmouth)
- Gatwick Express – fast, non-stop direct services between Gatwick Airport and London Victoria
www.southernrailway.com, www.thameslinkrailway.com, www.gatwickexpress.com, www.greatnorthernrail.com
