Chatty Bus partners with charities to help reduce loneliness

A popular bus scheme that helps tackle loneliness and isolation has partnered with Age UK and Oxford Hospitals Charity to deliver the first in a series of community outreach events this year.

Five Chatty Bus days will take place across the Oxford Bus Group via Oxford Bus Company, Carousel Buses, Pulhams Coaches and Thames Travel. Chatty Bus creates a welcoming environment which allows passengers to talk, connect and share stories.

The first event will be delivered by volunteers from Thames Travel, Age UK Oxfordshire and Oxford Hospitals Charity on board the X32 service between the John Radcliffe Hospital and Didcot on Thursday 19th February, coinciding with Emotional Health Week. 

Between 9am and 2:30pm, Chatty Bus volunteers will be on board the bus, ready to spark conversations and make introductions, with light games and information about local activities and social groups available.

Luke Marion, Managing Director of Oxford Bus Group, said: “Loneliness and isolation have a real impact on many people within the community and our bus passenger network, and so we’re proud to continue our Chatty Bus initiative to help address this issue.

“We’ve seen first-hand the positive effect which the Chatty Bus scheme can have, and after running it across three of our operating companies last year, we’re continuing the initiative to help deliver even greater impact across our network.

“We’re pleased to have partnered with two key charities to help ensure we can provide signposting to appropriate support if it is required. If you’re feeling lonely, or wanting to socialise or connect, then please do join us on the Chatty Bus this month.”

Following the Chatty Bus via the X32 service, further Chatty Bus events have been confirmed for 11th March (Oxford Bus Company), 11th June (Carousel Buses), 10th October (Thames Travel) and 9th November (Pulhams Coaches).

Age UK Oxfordshire is an independent charity working for a fairer later life in the county, challenging ageism and ensuring older people and unpaid carers have a voice.

Oxford Hospitals Charity helps fund cutting edge medical equipment, innovative research, specialist training and the best possible facilities for patients and staff, thanks to the generosity of donors and fundraisers.

In 2022, Go-Ahead Group, the parent company of Oxford Bus Group, signed the government’s Employers Pledge, committing to improve social connections and reduce loneliness levels.

Research suggests that one in three people deliberately catch the bus for social interaction, according to a survey conducted by ComRes on behalf of Greener Journeys.

Additionally, two-thirds of bus users say services create strong community ties, and eight out of 10 know someone who depends on the bus.

A full timetable for the upcoming Chatty Bus via the X32 can be found at: www.oxfordbus.co.uk/chatty-bus-19th-feb-2026