Chatty Bus: International Men's Day 2024

On Tuesday, 19th November, the Konectbus team will be bringing their Chatty Bus to the bus station in Norwich to mark International Men’s Health Day.

In collaboration with UK charities Walking with the Wounded and Prostate Cancer UK, the event will run from 10 am to 2 pm to raise awareness of the many support services accessible by bus across the region, as well as the resources available to support men’s health and wellbeing.

Loneliness and isolation are at the root of many mental health challenges, particularly in rural areas. Buses play a vital role in keeping these communities connected, and many people catch the bus simply to experience some form of social interaction.

Throughout the year, Chatty Bus places trained volunteers on board to encourage conversation among passengers. It helps promote positive conversations by bringing people together, fostering connections, and supporting mental health and wellbeing.

“Projects like the Chatty Bus are invaluable for our local communities, especially for those living in rural areas. We see our buses as a platform for conversations, and we are encouraging more people to become a Chatty Bus Champion by volunteering to step on board as we expand our Chatty Bus events in 2025. For some, the only time they see other people may be when they use public transport. By providing people with the opportunity to have meaningful conversations and connect with someone on the bus, we hope to help alleviate loneliness within our local community.

“It’s essential that we work with all organisations to achieve community support for those who have served and their families."

Davina Langley, Head of Commercial and Marketing at Go East Anglia. 

"The Walking with the Wounded staff are committed to working in partnership and collaboration with like-minded organisations and individuals to strengthen and improve support for all. Our bespoke advocacy empowers veterans to contribute to their own communities. We see this in the journeys taken by those we support through the darker times,” 

David Beer, WWTW Regional Manager for East and London.