The Chatty Bus is coming to Huddersfield town centre on Monday (January 19).

Chatty Bus is a community driven initiative designed to reduce loneliness and social isolation by encouraging friendly conversations on public transport and in public spaces.

Bus company Fourway will park the Chatty Bus in St George’s Square from 11am to 2pm and everyone is invited to stop by for a chat.

During the winter months social connection becomes more important than ever and often bus journeys are the only source of social interaction for people.

The Chatty Bus is open to anyone, offering a welcoming space to talk and meet new people.

The Huddersfield Chatty Bus is supported by Huddersfield Mission, a town centre charity that supports people with multiple and complex needs such as homelessness, mental health, addiction and more. The charity will be in attendance from 11am-1pm.

Paul Bridges, CEO at Huddersfield Mission, said: “Huddersfield Mission is pleased to be part of the Chatty Bus coming to Huddersfield.

“Through our work at Huddersfield Mission, we know how important it is that we all have the opportunity to talk with someone in a safe place.

“Indeed, we often say that our support starts with a brew and a chat. Whether it is on the Chatty Bus or here at Huddersfield Mission, we encourage everyone to take the opportunity to have a chat.”

Stuart Fillingham, commercial director at East Yorkshire Buses, said: “Small, everyday interactions can have a powerful impact on how people feel.

“Chatty Bus builds on that idea by encouraging friendly conversations and helping to reduce social isolation.

“We’re proud to support initiatives like this that bring people together and strengthen our local communities.”