Let’s Talk: the evidence for the power of conversations to bring about social change
Report commissioned by Larger Us, June 2026.
‘People need to be heard before they will listen’ says the writer Amanda Ripley. We couldn’t agree more.
This idea is the beating heart of our Let’s Talk Climate programme, which has inspired people all over the country to start conversations about climate change in their communities - from members of the Women’s Institute to supporters of The Wildlife Trusts, campaigners from Parents for Future and local climate action groups.
We know conversations like these can bring people together, bridge divides, and inspire action - but the biggest question is, can they move the political needle? That’s what we asked Luisa Melloh, a leading researcher on public engagement on climate change and the author of this new report, to help us find out.
Luisa’s findings are clear: conversations, held skilfully, are a powerful campaign tool, and one that has been overlooked by too many people for too long.
It’s time to look seriously as campaigners and organisers at how we equip people with the skills, confidence, and support they need to start talking about what matters to them in their communities, whether that’s climate, the cost of living, housing, or migration.
This report gets into the nuts and bolts of how and why conversations change hearts and minds. It’s full of practical knowledge you can apply to your own campaigns and context.
The good news is that anyone can learn how to hold an impactful conversation. The vital skills Luisa identifies in the report - things like active listening, finding common ground and storytelling - are ones that all of us can hone and develop.
As you’ll read, these skills are powerful and transformational - and as we face big challenges that depend on us coming together, the need for them has never been greater.
What next
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