I wrote a few months ago about the benefits we derive as people from the ‘relationships’ we have with people we see regularly in our communities, be they regulars in our gym or the people we see every day on the train to work.

Research showed that striking up conversations with this hidden social network were much happier than if they had remained silent.  The recipients were happier for the experience too.

Now, suffice to say, such behaviour doesn’t come naturally to many Londoners.  Indeed, as a city, it is quite renowned for its lack of bonhomie on public transport, so a little help might be required to see this conversational air take hold.

Step forward Talk To Me London, a new project that wants to help the residents of London share stories with one another.  The project was launched with the aim of countering the perception London has as a somewhat frosty kinda place, whilst at the same time help residents and commuters get to know one another a bit better.

The fulcrum of the project will be Talk To Me London Day in August, which is currently looking for financing via Kickstarter.  The event will see Talk To Me badges handed out to participants to signal to others that they’re up for a natter.  They’re also planning various flash mob style events, such as a book club on the tube and dinner parties in the cities parks.

Will it be enough to change the culture of London?  Time will tell.  You can learn more about the project via the video below, or support their Kickstarter project here.