How Do You Say the Right Thing?

What happens when a friendship breaks down? How can you repair it? Should you even try?

In this special Sunday podcast, Nuala McGovern brings together all the interviews from Woman's Hour's 'Forever Friends?' series.

Annie and Lizzie first met at school, and Lizzie said she believed they were ‘kindred spirits’. But soon after Annie’s first child was born, Lizzie decided to cut off contact. They reflect on this period of silence and how their relationship has changed since they have rekindled the friendship.

Daniella and Nataliya – Nat and Dan - also met at school. An argument caused by gossip when they were both 17 led to the break-up of their friendship, but they reunited years later. They are now both in their thirties, living in London. They share their perspectives on how romantic relationships can impact close friendships.

Nina is a Woman's Hour listener who contacted the programme after hearing the series. She wanted to share her experience of repairing a long-term friendship.

Listener Christina was also inspired to reach out after hearing stories of friendship on Woman's Hour. Having ended contact with three close friends in four years, Christina wanted to ask if she was the reason her friendships kept falling apart.

Presented by Nuala McGovern Compilation by Hatty Nash Features produced by Erin Riley