UK retailer Morrisons has teamed up with the 1 Million Minutes campaign, which asks people to donate their time, rather than money to combat loneliness.

To support the campaign, Talking Tills were introduced at Morrisons stores nationwide 4-7 December, offering customers the chance to spend a little more time at the checkout to enjoy a light-hearted or meaningful conversation with staff.

For many people, especially those who may be feeling isolated, a trip to the supermarket can be one of the few opportunities to speak to someone in person. Talking Tills aim to make these everyday moments more supportive, sociable, and reassuring.

“For many people, especially at this time of year, a simple conversation can make a real difference,” said David Scott, Corporate Affairs Director at Morrisons.

“The Talking Tills campaign is designed to create space for those meaningful moments, offering customers the chance to slow down and chat if they’d like to.”

The 1 Million Minutes campaign, now in its tenth year with over 672 million minutes pledged, brings together thousands of volunteers with thousands of people experiencing loneliness and isolation around the UK.

The Talking Tills initiative forms Morrisons wider commitment to tackling loneliness with its charity partners this Christmas, including a £50,000 donation from the Morrisons Foundation to fund 100 of Royal Voluntary Service’s festive spreads and providing 400 free Christmas meals in Morrisons cafés in partnership with Age UK.

The supermarket’s in store Community Champions will also be donating thousands of Morrisons products to local festive events supporting isolated members of the community.