Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel will mark Mental Health Awareness Week by bringing back its Chatty Bus initiative.
In partnership with the charity Restore, volunteers will be on board Oxford Bus Company’s 5A service from 0900hrs to 1500hrs on 14 May.
The aim is to encourage social interaction and tackle loneliness during Mental Health Awareness Week on 12-18 May.
The operators launched Chatty Bus in 2019 and are reigniting the initiative having been pleased with the results of earlier campaigns.
On board the designated service between Oxford, Cowley Centre and Littlemore, a Chatty Bus champion will be at the front of the bus. Passengers will be able to pick up a badge saying they are happy to chat or they can opt to enjoy their journey quietly.
Those who engage in “meaningful conversations” on the bus will receive a £5 drinks voucher to use at the Restore Garden Café.
The café is run by the Oxfordshire-based charity, which supports individuals through recovery groups, coaching and learning and aims to reduce stigma surrounding mental ill health.
Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company and Thames Travel’s Managing Director, says: “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 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.”
