Is small talk a thing of the past? Over half of Brits think so as Cheltenham and District Samaritans say that your words are a lifesaving kit.
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.
This survey comes as Cheltenham and District Samaritans relaunches Small Talk Saves Lives in partnership with Network Rail, British Transport Police and the wider rail industry. The campaign encourages people to start a simple conversation if they think someone doesn’t look ok on the railway network and other public settings. The campaign was celebrated in Cheltenham and Kemble events on 18 March 2026 at Cheltenham Spa and Kemble railway stations alongside Great Western Railway staff.
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 stating 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.
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.
Sue Honeywill, Branch Director of Cheltenham and District Samaritans said:
“Whilst we know that small talk may not always feel easy to some, we know that it can make a huge difference to someone in distress.
So, whether you comment on the weather, or ask where someone can find a coffee, the simple small talk can be all it takes to connect with someone and potentially save a life.”
Louise McNally, principal suicide & trespass prevention specialist, said:
“Small Talk Saves Lives 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 every 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, said:
“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.”