If you think someone might need help, trust your instincts and start a simple conversation. You could save a life.
About the campaign
Since launching in 2017, Small Talk Saves Lives has successfully raised awareness within railway stations and other public settings about the need to trust your instincts and start a simple conversation if you think someone might need help.
Only 50%
of UK adults said they would feel confident approaching and speaking to someone they don’t know in public if they were concerned about them.
We want to let people know it’s normal to feel anxious about starting a conversation and making small talk. You might worry about saying the wrong thing – but having the confidence to act could help save a life.
A little small talk and a simple question like “Hi, where can I get a coffee?” can be all it takes to interrupt someone's suicidal thoughts and could help set them on the journey to recovery.
Samaritans’ Small Talk Saves Lives is delivered in partnership with Network Rail, British Transport Police and the wider rail industry. The campaign will run from 21 February to 12 March 2023.
Having the confidence to act could save a life
How to start a conversation with somebody who needs help
How you can get involved
We're giving people the confidence to approach someone if they think they might need help. You don’t need special training to help – you just need to start a conversation.
Join thousands of people looking out for one another.
Head over to our campaign toolkit and help share the #SmallTalkSavesLives campaign.
Real life stories
Anthony, Fran, Sam, Channique, Kim and Carol share their stories and experience of how simply being there and showing you care can make a difference to someone. It could save their life.
