Derby Get Connected

I was really pleased when Peter Kay chose car sharing as the subject for his new sit-com. I knew that it would create some really funny moments and would help improve the public’s perception of this social and sustainable mode of transport.

Inevitably the show indulges in a little exaggeration for (very successful) comedy effect, but what stood out was how realistic it was and how it compared to the stories that we come across on the Connected network. Car sharing is a great way to commute to work and can forge lifelong friendships with colleagues. Car sharing can often start with an informal arrangement with colleagues or sometimes it is  introduced to the whole company, using websites such as derbycarshare.com that match people depending on their location and work patterns.

Having watched all six episodes on BBC iPlayer (no spoilers for those who haven’t) I was struck with how true to life the experiences were.

Overcoming the fear of silence

The fear of sitting in silence is a big barrier to people car-sharing. The idea of sitting in traffic with a stranger beside you – with a deadly silence between you can be daunting. We have found that yes, there may be some awkward silences to start off with but more often than not this changes into banter about work, day to day giggles at office politics or general chit chat about your day – and after a few days the silences (if there are any) turn into companionable – just like old friends. Don’t worry if you aren’t a morning person – not everyone is!

What starts out as two people sharing a lift – soon blossoms into genuine friendship

John and Kayleigh had the familiarity of work which gave them something in common from the outset. However, they didn’t know each other very well and although conversation was a little stilted at first they soon become firm friends. The little quirks that we all have may become magnified in such a confined space but very soon they understand each other and with a little give and take they start to love sharing experiences.

Traveling to work suddenly becomes enjoyable

John and Kayleigh probably wouldn’t have car-shared if their employer hadn’t asked them to. But once they started, they didn’t want to go back to traveling alone. They shared banter, debates, silly car games, dating advice and – very importantly – the odd gripe about annoying colleagues! On top of the money saving, no wonder car-sharers don’t want to give that all up to travel solo again.

Had one to many the night before – its ok you have a lift in the morning

Been partying until 5am? Not a problem – as Kayleigh discovered in episode three! One of the best things about car-sharing is that you can let someone else take the strain. We often hear from lift-sharers who love having the opportunity to relax, maybe catch up on their emails, or even have a bit of a snooze while someone else does the driving.

Sharers really do love a sing-along to the radio!

We mentioned that car-sharers quickly become comfortable with each other, having a common love of songs and music soon establishes a friendship and having a sing-along certainly puts you in a great mood.

Peter Kay’s Car Share airs on BBC ONE on Wednesday nights and BBC iPlayer has the first three episodes so you can catch up. If you are interested in car sharing you can find out more details from Connected on 01332 641762 or emailing info@derbyconnected.com

Tagged in: Car ShareConnectedDerbyPeter Kay