New data reveals that 52% of Brits think small talk is a thing of the past despite more than half of people saying they would appreciate the kind words of a stranger if they were visibly upset.
The data is released as Samaritans, Network Rail, and British Transport Police, relaunch their partnership campaign Small Talk Saves Lives by unveiling “Ticket to Talk” at London Waterloo station – a dramatic display of 2,284 tickets representing the small everyday phrases that were used around the rail network in the last year to save a life.
A survey commissioned by Samaritans found that over three quarters (78%) of Brits admitted to having avoided small talk in the past, despite 59% of respondents stated they would appreciate kind words from a stranger if they were visibly upset, and two thirds (68%) of them said they would be more inclined to make small talk with a stranger if they knew it made a positive impact.
Dave Brown, head of rail at Samaritans, said: “We know that people are often worried about saying the wrong thing to someone who is visibly upset, but it’s always better to say something than nothing at all. A brief chat, about the weather, or asking someone where they can grab a coffee, can be all it takes to interrupt those negative thoughts. Your words are a life-saving kit.”
The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign, which Samaritans has run in partnership with Network Rail and British Transport Police since 2017, encourages the public to make some small talk with someone they think could be in distress, as your words could be a life-saving kit.
Louise McNally, principal suicide & trespass prevention specialist, commented: “Ticket to Talk shines a light on the power of everyday conversation, and its ability to make a huge impact on a stranger.
“Millions of people pass through the rail network each day, and everyone single one of them could ask a simple question or say a friendly comment that could make all the difference. By encouraging colleagues and passengers to pause and start a conversation with someone that looks like they might need help, we’re encouraging people to make looking out for one another second nature and reminding them that small talk really can save lives.”
Superintendent Sam Painter, British Transport Police lead for Protecting Vulnerable People, added: “The Small Talk Saves Lives campaign reinforces the message that anyone can play a role in supporting vulnerable people, even through something as simple as a little small talk.
“We continue to work closely with Samaritans and Network Rail to ensure that those experiencing a mental health crisis receive timely and appropriate help. While a moment of small talk could help someone feel less alone, we also encourage anyone who sees a person they believe is in distress on the railway network to report it to us by texting 61016 or calling 999 in an emergency.”
For more information and tips, visit Samaritans.org/smalltalksaveslives or join the conversation on social media using #SmallTalkSavesLives
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