Watch out for the neighbours

With self-isolation looming for all New Zealanders, there’s never been a more important time to check in on your community and neighbours.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has asked the public to look after their neighbours during this unprecedented time.

Community website Neighbourly is doing that through its launch of a nationwide campaign called ‘‘Reach Out’’ to help those in need, with members offering to run errands and walk people’s pets.

Already, more than 100 community groups have joined the Neighbourly campaign, a figure that was growing daily.

Head of Neighbourly Jake Shand said the website also had an increase in people using Neighbourly, connecting to one another and offering each other support.

One elderly woman in Christchurch who posted on the Reach Out page about feeling isolated and in distress received almost 100 messages, Shand said.

There was never a more important time to protect and help those who may be isolated or need extra help in this time – especially those who were vulnerable and needed support, he said. Neighbourly was giving a call to action to people to head to the Reach Out page.

‘‘There’s never been a time in history before where it’s more important to stay connected to the people around you,’’ he said.

The Reach Out campaign is officially described as a hub for Kiwis to find support from others, or to reach out to a neighbour or community in need. ‘‘Members are encouraged to share how they’re coping, how they can support each other, and what everyone is doing to embrace the changes that are happening around us.’’

The website has also set up its own assistance cards for people wanting to take part in the campaign and help others in the community. Shopping, picking up post, walking your dog, and having a friendly chat are just some of the things people could offer to do.

stuff.co.nz