...by approaching strangers in a shopping centre

Andy Parsons is fronting a new campaign encouraging people to talk more to combat loneliness.

 The film shows people’s reaction as the Mock The Week comic spends a day in a shopping centre encouraging people to get off their smartphones and have a chat. Secret cameras captured the moment he approached surprised shoppers and how early awkward moments let do laughter.

The video is part of Be More Us, a movement spearheaded by the Campaign to End Loneliness, after research showing that small moments  such as talking with strangers, can make us feel more connected.

Parsons said: ‘I was apprehensive about just sitting down in the middle of a shopping centre and initiating conversations with total strangers. I wasn’t sure whether many people would talk to me at all, let alone whether we would get any footage we could turn into a film. 

‘As it was, everybody, without exception, was pleasant and the four hours I spent there passed incredibly quickly. Just a few words, asking someone how they are, can positively change how a person feels about their day and I would recommend the experience to everyone. 

‘If we all strive to have more conversations with the people around us, then we can spread a little happiness and help reduce loneliness in Britain. 

‘As I go around the country on tour, I shall definitely be popping into more shopping centres and looking forward to sitting down on a bench for a chat."

Laura Alcock-Ferguson, executive director at the Campaign to End Loneliness, added: ‘It’s all too easy to shut ourselves off and forget how to connect with

people around us. But even a small change in behaviour – like simply saying hello to a neighbour - can make you feel better and brighten up someone else’s day too. 

‘Every one of us can make a positive difference in our communities, just by talking to each other more.’

Here’s the video

Campaign to End Loneliness’ top tips to get talking

1. Start small: It’s better to expand your comfort zone gradually. Small gestures such as smiling or just saying ‘Good morning’ to people you pass in the street can make a big difference.

2. Ask open questions: ‘How are you?’ is a good start but, in reality, it’s almost a closed question as most people will answer ‘fine, thanks’. Instead, try asking for advice or an opinion, commenting on the weather, or sharing a compliment.

3. Look approachable: Non-verbal communication makes up a minimum of 60 per cent  of our communication, so smile and uncross your arms. That also means making yourself approachable, by putting your phone down and taking off your headphones.

4. Get out there: Going to evening classes, attending a workshop, learning a new sport or volunteering can open up opportunities to meet new like-minded people.

5. Challenge yourself: Set yourself goals for talking to new people every week, for example at your bus stop or train station, learning the name of the shop assistant at your local newsagent or having a conversation with a neighbour.

Published: 8 May 2019