Free coffee in new scheme

TRADESPEOPLE will be able to grab a free coffee this week as part of a mental health initiative.

The cafe in Selco Builders Warehouse in Northarbour Spur is encouraging customers to take an extra drinks break and check in with their colleagues.

Free hot drinks will be available in all open in-branch Selco cafes from today until October 9, in the build-up to World Mental Health Day on October 10.

Carine Jessamine, marketing director at Selco, said: ‘In the build-up to World Mental

Health Day, we’re delighted to be offering our customers the chance to grab a free drink, have a quick break and to use the time to checkin with their friends and colleagues.

‘Our aim is to raise awareness of mental health issues and to advocate that no one should have to face a problem alone.

‘Our cafes remain takeaway only at present so, unfortunately, we can’t have customers sitting in branch, but the hope is that they will return to their vans or jobs and have conversations.

‘The Covid-19 outbreak has had an enormous impact on mental health. We want our customers to know that it’s always good to talk.’

Stephen Haynes, from mental health charity Mates in Mind, added: ‘Just because help is available, we shouldn’t assume that people will always reach out but we should also bear in mind that people may be more likely to approach someone closest to them before reaching out for professional help.

‘If you are worried about someone you know, start the conversation.