Oxford’s chatty bus return today to help tackle loneliness
The chatty bus is aimed to help anyone struggling with loneliness and isolation
Oxford Bus Company is helping to tackle loneliness and isolation, as it's Chatty Bus returns today.
The company’s Chatty Bus initiative has teamed up with mental health charity Restore to provide extra support to mark Mental Health Awareness Week.
Research shows buses can provide a vital lifeline for many of those living in isolation, as a third of Britons say they deliberately catch the bus to have some human contact.
ComRes on behalf of Greener Journeys also found, while two-thirds of bus users say services create strong community ties, and eight out of 10 know someone who depends on the bus.
Volunteers will be on-board Oxford’s 5A service to chat with passengers between Oxford, Cowley Centre and Littlemore.
Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel’s Managing Director, said: “Restore won our 2021-2022 Brand the Bus competition and we’ve maintained our relationship with the charity since then. Developing the partnership further will help provide enhance the support we provide via Chatty Bus.
“The Chatty Bus experience creates the opportunity to connect, share stories, and build relationships within a supportive environment. By partnering with Restore, it means people can extend conversations and social interaction at the café, and if anyone needs extra support, we can help signpost them.
“Research has found buses form an important social function and by providing extra engagement, we hope to deliver more support and use Mental Health Awareness Week to help share the message that help is available.”
Oxford Bus Company also say Chatty Bus passengers can get a £5 drinks voucher to use at Restore Garden Café if they engage in meaningful conversations on the bus.
Restore is a specialist organisation in Oxfordshire, works to increase awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health.
They support individuals through recovery groups, coaching and learning, empowering them to take control of their recovery, develop skills, and achieve their goals.
Libby Peppiatt, CEO of Restore, said: "Restore is delighted to work with the Oxford Bus Company's activities during Mental Health Awareness Week.
“The efforts to raise awareness of mental health, and to champion the benefits of human connection on one's well-being, very much align with Restore's values.
“The Chatty Bus will turn an everyday space into an environment that encourages a more supportive and connected community. Restore's Garden Cafe on Manzil Way is excited to welcome visitors from the buses for their free coffee and some good chat."