Asda has launched a brilliant new initiative to help combat loneliness this Christmas, which has been especially heightened by recent lockdown measures.
With help from the Royal Voluntary Service, Asda is working with delivery drivers and in-store Community Champions to tackle social isolation in the community.
From yesterday, Asda’s 7,500 delivery drivers will have the option to add something new to their uniform, a ‘Happy to Chat’ badge.
Asda
The message on this new badge lets customers know they’re happy to have a quick chat with them while their shopping is being delivered.
And it’s needed more than ever at the moment, as according to the Royal Voluntary Service 13% of people are experiencing loneliness, with over a third (39%) unable to see friends and family, and a quarter left without any support nearby. A lot of people only see delivery drivers and other delivery workers while they self-isolate, and 1 in 4 said they looked forward to seeing them just to have someone to talk to.
The badges will be particularly useful for some, as 42% of people said they shy away from starting a conversation as they don’t want to be a burden, while 25% would be more likely to start a conversation if they knew the other person was ‘Happy to Chat’ too.
Anna-Maree Shaw, Asda’s chief customer officer, 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.”
Asda
Sam Ward, deputy chief executive at the RVS, said: “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.”