Samaritans Small Talk Saves Lives

New data reveals that 52% of Brits think small talk is a thing of the past, despite more than half saying they would appreciate the kind words of a stranger if they were visibly upset.

The 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.

The new figures come as part of Samaritans’ annual Small Talk Saves Lives campaign, in partnership with Network Rail and British Transport Police, encouraging the public to make some small talk with someone they think could be in distress, as words could be a life-saving.

Aston spoke to Anne-Marie Aldersen from Samaritans and Louise McNally, principal suicide & trespass prevention specialist at Network Rail.