WHY BEING NEIGHBOURLY IS GOOD FOR EVERYONE
Lots of us chatted to our neighbours for the first time while clapping for carers in spring, and they’ve become a familiar part of our community. Emma says we should nurture these relationships
While my neighbours aren’t among my closest friends, I can borrow a lawnmower from them, and I enjoy chatting to them over the garden fence. This relationship makes home life feel secure and supportive. Many people only properly met their neighbours in the early days of the pandemic, and a survey has found that half of us would be willing to help a neighbour in another lockdown. But you shouldn’t need a reason to strengthen bonds – plus the benefits will pleasantly surprise you.
MAKE CONNECTIONS
Your street is a potential goldmine of friends. I’m on a WhatsApp group for my estate to keep up with important local information, but I’ve got to know the members as individuals, so I say hello to pretty much everyone I see, which automatically lifts my mood. Facebook groups do the same, and both give you a sense of local protection too.
BE KIND AND POLITE
Random acts of kindness help foster bonds. Every month, we order pizza and alternate the one we get free with our next-door neighbours’ kids. It’s simple, but it makes them smile whenever my lads drop their food off.
Many people worry that being too friendly will create pressure, but there is a balance – you can be friendly without feeling that you have to invite them round for dinner every weekend. A 10-minute natter when you bump into them shows clear boundaries, but also makes you likeable and neighbourly.
The most common gripes are noise and mess. If you’re doing loud DIY, or having a clear-out, warn your neighbours and maybe throw in a bottle of wine as an advance “thank you”. Not everyone gets on, and that’s fine. If a resident is a bit difficult, stay out of their way and pick your battles. If they’re genuinely hostile, you can ask the local council for some mediation.
CHECK IN ON PEOPLE
Right now, many people will be struggling with isolation, a lack of family visits, worries over their livelihoods and mental health concerns. Going round with a slice of cake and having a chat could make all the difference – and you both benefit.