Burnley brewer's new beer to spark mental health conversations

Two Burnley businesses have joined forces to craft a new beer designed to encourage open conversations about mental health.

Ask Twice has been created by Moorhouse's. Each bar pump clip, bottle and drip mat will feature a QR code that leads to a dedicated online support page created by Six Connections which offers guidance on starting conversations about this important topic.

Founded by Dave Scholes after the loss of his best friend to suicide, Six Connections champions the power of conversations. It is an organisation that extends beyond traditional well-being support, fostering a culture whereby lifesaving ‘real talk’ about mental health happens naturally, in relatable spaces, with people who know you best.

Dave said: “‘Ask Twice’ is more than just a beer. It’s a conversation starter, encouraging people to talk about how they are feeling, in the good times as well as the not so good. We all know we need these conversations from time to time, but often don’t start them. Encouraging supportive chat in normal places like the pub, allows everyone to feel more comfortable and support their mates. These conversations will save lives."

Lee Williams, managing director of Moorhouse’s, added: "We know these conversations can start anywhere, including over a beer, and with Dave’s drive to empower people to get talking, this was just such a natural fit. It’s all about raising awareness - and if just one person is helped through this partnership, it will have been worthwhile."

Ask Twice is a modern bitter with a 3.8% ABV, rich amber hue, and an inviting taste profile featuring tangy pink grapefruit, dried fruits, and sweet caramel malt.

The beer will be available nationally as part of the Wetherspoons Spring Beer Festival from 6th –17th March, leveraging Wetherspoons' extensive reach to champion the cause of mental health awareness and the vital importance of checking in with one another.

The beer will also be featured at the Wigan Beer Festival from 29th February – 2nd March, and Lancaster Beer Festival from 7th – 9th March, alongside featuring on bars throughout March across the North-West that are supplied by Moorhouse’s, plus on sale online.

Contributions from each sale will be donated to Six Connections.