Pub and venue company Stonegate has announced a two-year partnership with mental health charity the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).

This launches today with a campaign called Cheers to Checking In which encourages people to check in with their friends to support their mental health.

The partnership supports the firm’s mission around the benefits of social connection, says Stonegate.

It warns that every 90 minutes someone in the UK dies by taking their own life, and suicide is the biggest killer among men under the age of 50. Stonegate also warns that rates are rising among women under the age of 24.

Messaging from CALM will be on display at Stonegate venues, including on digital screens, throughout the partnership.

Also its staff and partners will take part in fundraising and awareness raising activities.

The Cheers to Checking In campaign takes place for a week from 19 January and includes partner Beavertown Brewery, which already supports CALM.

Stonegate patrons are encouraged to buy a pint of Beavertown in participating Stonegate venues, share a photo with a mate on social media ‘cheers to checking in’, and enter for the chance to win prizes using #CheersToCheckingIn and #Beavertown.

Stonegate will match all funds raised during this week of activity.

“In the middle of a growing mental health crisis, CALM’s life-saving services have never been more important, said Stonegate Group chief executive David McDowall.

“The statistics aren’t just numbers – they are lives, families and stories that touch our colleagues, our guests and the communities we serve.

“CALM is an inspiring charity with a clear mission: to make sure no one feels suicide is their only option.

“Together, we can bring hope, raise vital funds and break the stigma. We’re proud to launch this partnership and will match all fundraising in its first week – because this work genuinely saves lives.”

CALM chief executive Simon Gunning added: “We are incredibly proud to be joining Stonegate as their charity partner.

“They are at the heart of communities throughout the UK, and by platforming CALM and genuinely championing our mission they will undoubtedly go on to save countless lives. Cheers to them.”

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