On the buses or not, let’s keep up the conversation

The idea of a talking bus at first conjures up the idea of another piece of smart technology invading our lives.

But Wednesday’s initiative between Arriva and the West Kent Befriending Service was a far cry from the world of digital dependence.

Instead it was a chance for some of the lonely and isolated in our society to sit down and have a conversation. No bells and whistles, except when passengers reached their stop.

The creation of the bus service is a bittersweet reflection on our society.

On the one hand, it’s great to give vulnerable people the chance to get out and talk to the world at large.

But on the other, the fact such a service had to be created, and that these people have found themselves so isolated, is a sad reflection of the modern world.

Whether it’s bereavement or the breakdown of a relationship, loneliness is a shadow that hangs over most of us, especially among the older population.

However it’s brought about, what matters is the support that follows.

Whether it’s walking groups, bowls clubs or a coffee morning, help is out there, providing a voice to hear and ears to listen.

West Kent Befriending Service is a fine example of the lengths some people will go to help out others they barely know.

But conversation doesn’t need to be organised.

Chatting about anything, even the weather, doesn’t require an entry fee or overhead costs.

The talking bus has that message at its core, but rather than letting conversation be organised, perhaps we should all take a great initiative.

All we need to do is keep talking.