We can’t choose our neighbours, but we can choose how we treat them. We can all do something, no matter how small to be a good neighbour. There are lots of easy and quick things that you can do, it could even be as simple as a smile and a hello when you see a neighbour in the street.
Below are some of the ways you can ensure you are the neighbour that you would want to have. Being respectful, helpful and considerate is always great place to start.
In December 2022, Jean’s Property Manager, Barry, paid her a visit and could see the impact her living conditions were having on her. He told her about one of our local Independent Living schemes, Queensway Court, based in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire not far from where Jean was living. With its great community and plenty of on-site facilities, Barry thought the scheme would suit Jean and her lifestyle down to the ground. Soon, Jean took a tour of Queensway and after meeting Emma, Independent Living Scheme Manager and her team at the scheme, she soon moved in.
Jean said “On first entering Queensway, I was so surprised - it opened my eyes to what is available. It was like a different world! I’m still independent, it’s like living again and has completely changed my life for the better. I feel more relaxed and no longer feel alone because I can go downstairs to have a coffee and talk to people. I can also attend activities like skittles and ‘knit and natter’. I feel so happy now. My apartment is lovely and cosy - without stairs and I feel safe. I wish I had moved in years ago!”
We all want peace of mind, especially as we grow older. We also want to live in quality housing that is safe, easy to access, maintain and affordable whilst enabling us to live life to the full. We offer different types of homes to suit a wide variety of people and lifestyles.
Read more on Jean's story here
Find out more about our Independent Living offer.
Over the last few months we received an outpouring of nominations from you for our Good Neighbour awards, an award which highlights those neighbours who go above and beyond for others in their community. We were overwhelmed by the volume of nominations and truly inspirational stories which have been shared.
Ken was nominated by his neighbour, Anne, who noticed how Ken would run coffee mornings for older residents and go out of his way to check on everyone, especially if anything unexpected occurred such as a power cut. Anne also added that Ken is always willing to head up to the chemist or shop if asked and will also run rubbish down to the bins for his neighbours who find this difficult.
Ken said: “I was very surprised to be nominated as I didn't think I was doing anything to warrant it. I appreciated the nomination as it was good to be appreciated. I am pleased to have received the award and I hope it encourages others to help one another. “
Make sure to head over to our news section read the full winning article here
They've been nothing but helpful since I've moved in. They've been so kind and considerate. I cannot rave about them enough!
They have been super helpful when I have been in hospital and looked after my dog, always friendly and always caring. One of the best neighbours I could ask for.
Because they are the best neighbours someone can have, helpful, caring, loving.
This man is always available to help anyone in need and will go above and beyond if necessary to help a neighbour and can turn his hand to most households needs, it’s like having a reliable handyman on site. All he asks in return is you be polite and decent.
She is a neighbour who looks out for everyone. She makes sure to attach chocolates on her bins weekly, for the bin men to munch on. Wow, never seen that anywhere! She makes sure the estate is constantly clean, both front and back. She is just exceptional.
This neighbour has been so kind to me over past few months after having surgery, he has been helping with childcare and shopping he always checks in on me. He is a wonderful friend and neighbour.
Home is our safe space and should be a place where people can be themselves without the fear of prejudice, regardless of their sexual orientation and/ or gender identity. In 2021, we signed up for the HouseProud Pledge Scheme to demonstrate our commitment to achieving that aim and we are continuing to shine a light on this to raise awareness and let you know we are here.
Our communities are made up of a range of people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We know that we're stronger and more successful when we support each other and combine the unique perspectives, talents and wisdom that our different life experiences give us. It's important to celebrate and embrace each other’s differences and come together to make communities thrive!
After the isolation felt in during the pandemic, we are all too familiar with the importance of coming together and combating isolation. So, we want to share the different things you can do to come together and make the community a more welcoming place.
We believe that having a sense of community unites us. It can give us the opportunity to connect with people and improve our wellbeing by helping us feel safe and secure. Our living spaces for older adults gives residents a sense of physical, emotional and economic security, as well as reduced social isolation. We look after the care and maintenance of your home, so it can free you up to spend your time doing the things you really love.
Thriving communities are diverse, welcoming, fair and equal to all.
Being part of a connected community gives us a sense of belonging. It’s important to understand that each person is unique, and that our individual differences should be respected, valued and welcomed. It helps us to be more tolerant and understanding of different cultures, making our communities better.
We believe in providing an environment for our customers that gives everyone an equal chance to live, learn and work free from discrimination, harassment, victimisation and prejudice; an environment where everyone can thrive.
Being a part of a community can make us feel as though we are a part of something greater than ourselves.
Not everyone will be a respectful neighbour, sometimes neighbourly disputes may turn more negative and result in anti-social behaviour (ASB). ASB can include a range of unacceptable behaviours that can cause nuisance and/or harm and distress to somebody else. It can be a serious issue in some communities and really affect the lives of others if not dealt with.
We want everyone to live in a community that is safe, tidy and free from bulky waste. Items such as old kitchen appliances, TV’s and even bin bags full of waste count as bulky waste if they’re not disposed of correctly. It not only looks and often smells unpleasant, but it can also be dangerous, especially for children. Keep your family safe by knowing how to manage your own bulky waste and know what to do if you see someone else disposing of it illegally. Love your community, help keep it tidy for everyone to enjoy!
It can be daunting moving into a new community. Make it easier for your new neighbours by saying hello with our handy postcard. Opening the lines of communication with a friendly hello can help you start your relationship with your new neighbours on a positive note.
Be sure to include any useful community social media groups or tips about the neighbourhood.
Simply cut on the dotted line and pop the postcard in their letterbox on your next trip out of the house. It could make somebody’s day.
Download your good neighbour booklet full of useful tips from your community as well as beneficial apps and websites – and its free to download.
