Oxford Bus Company helps tackle loneliness through Chatty Bus initiative

Numerous people shared stories and made new connections when Oxford Bus Company’s popular Chatty Bus hit the road again this week.

Volunteers on board Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel’s X32 service got passengers talking on the journey from the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford to Didcot via Oxford city centre, Headington and Milton Park.

The initiative was launched in 2019 for anyone feeling lonely or isolated or who wants to meet others. Due to its popularity, two more Chatty Bus events are planned this year on 14th May and 10th October.

As passengers boarded the bus, a team of Chatty Bus Champions was on hand to make introductions or lend an ear to anyone seeking companionship. 

As well as providing conversation starters, the Champions handed out badges and pens, shared information about local travel and activities and provided encouragement where it was needed. Conversations onboard ranged from ceramic classes to travel plans, personal fitness to fashion sense.

Luke Marion, Managing Director of Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel, said: “Loneliness remains a real issue that affects so many people in our community, and we hope the return of Chatty Bus will help make a difference.

“The Chatty Bus Experience creates the opportunity to connect, share stories, and build relationships within a supportive environment. 

“This year, we have plans to grow our Chatty Bus initiative to take it to the next level for the benefit of the communities we serve.”

According to a study by ComRes, carried out on behalf of Greener Journeys, one third of Britons admit that they catch the bus deliberately to have some human contact.

Meanwhile two-thirds of bus users say services create strong community ties, and eight out of 10 know someone who depends on the service.

Luke added: “Buses form an important social function and by providing extra engagement we hope to deliver more support and raise awareness of the issue and the help that is available.

“Not everyone wishes to engage in conversation when travelling on our services, but for some it might represent their only opportunity to speak to people during the day which is something we encourage our team to be mindful of as part of their service.”

Chatty Bus is part of Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel’s Oxford Bus Cares initiative. In 2022 parent company Go-Ahead Group signed the government’s Employers Pledge, committing to improving social connections and reducing levels of loneliness.

Details of further Chatty Bus journeys this year will be shared online via www.oxfordbus.co.uk.