As part of the RAISE project, we have prepared a handbook based on the results of qualitative research on the difficulties of starting a conversation with people from different social groups. The research was conducted among parents of preschool-aged children.

The publication titled “Within Reach: Simple Ways to Start a Conversation” contains a set of practical tips on how to begin and carry on a conversation with people from various backgrounds — even when we differ in language, place of origin, or life experience. The text includes simple opening phrases, safe conversation topics, ways to ease feelings of uncertainty, and short exercises that help shift from fixed assumptions to curiosity and openness to contact.

The guide is meant for everyday use: in public offices, preschools or schools, at work, in queues — wherever we meet unfamiliar people.

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Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed in the materials are however those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.