Suicide prevention charity Samaritans has partnered with Network Rail and the British Transport Police to launch the latest work in its ongoing ‘Small Talk Saves Lives’ campaign.
Also working in conjunction with the wider rail industry, the creative aims to encourage people to start simple conversations with others if they feel someone doesn’t look well on the railway network, if they feel it is safe to do so.
Crafted in collaboration with London-based agency 23red, the campaign will be centred around a 30-second spot that shows how when it comes to saving lives, most people already have a life-saving kit available to them, their words.
Samaritans head of the rail programme, Olivia Cayley said: “We know that people can worry about saying the wrong thing or feel like it’s not their place to step in, but it’s always better to say something than to say nothing at all.”
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“A little small talk and a simple question like ‘Hey, are you alright?’ can be all it takes to interrupt someone’s negative thoughts,” she added.
“We can all have good days and bad days and that’s why it’s so important to look out for one another. This campaign is a powerful reminder for all who use the railway, passengers or staff, that small talk can be lifesaving,” said Andrew Haines, Network Rail CEO.
“I’m so proud we’re able to join Samaritans and British Transport Police once again to inform the public that starting a little conversation can go a long way to help someone in need of support.”
Running across video-on-demand, digital and out-of-home, the work was directed and photographed by Sophie Harris-Taylor. The campaign will also be further amplified by a special exhibition display at London Bridge station running through to 4 April.
23red creative director, Tristan Cavanagh commented: “Everyone, through the power of their words, has a lifesaving kit. It’s something anyone can do, so we hope that by encouraging everyone to realise they already have the tools to help someone in need, and how easy it is, we can increase their confidence to take that simple step.”
