As levels of loneliness in the UK continue to rise in the run up to Christmas, supermarket giant Asda has come up with a new campaign to get shoppers and its staff talking.
From today, shoppers may spot delivery drivers wearing badges which say 'Happy to Chat' - and can enjoy a good old chinwag with any employees wearing them.
The badges have been launched as part of Asda's new 'Delivering Christmas Kindness' campaign, which seeks to tackle loneliness in UK communities as we head towards the festive period.
Asda says that 7,500 of its delivery drivers will now have the option to wear one of the 'Happy to Chat' badges - which could offer a simple, yet crucial lifeline to some of the loneliest people in the UK.
The badges are not compulsory, so anyone who is wearing one has chosen to take the time to chat to customers.
The campaign, which launched today, has already been praised by shoppers, with some calling it 'amazing' and 'brilliant'.
Asda's chief customer officer, Anna-Maree Shaw, said: "It’s a challenging time for everyone, especially those experiencing loneliness.
"While Asda colleagues have always made an effort to have a quick chat and raise a smile, we want to make sure that whether it’s in our stores, at the doorstep or in the community – we’re here for customers this Christmas."
Sam Ward, deputy chief executive and director of services at the RVS, added: "Royal Voluntary Service is incredibly proud to be part of such a wonderful initiative alongside Asda.
"We all understand that Christmas can be difficult for those who are on their own and that this year stands to be trickier than ever.
"With the help of this fantastic project, it shows that even just a little Christmas kindness will go a long way in making the festive season easier for those in need."
