Community Matters: How to find community

I really do have a lovely job, but amongst its many challenges is finding ways to connect and bring a hidden community together. 

Large housing estates, very limited community infrastructure, lack of what we call “bumping spaces” – no schools, doctors' Surgeries, corner shops, takeaways, or even a noticeboard, or community benches.  Many of these new estates could be considered dormitories, but somehow connections do begin to be made.

In one of our new estates along the ring road, I recently found out about a book club, established on one road, and organised in someone’s home via a WhatsApp group.  How lucky that there are still people willing and able to start a connection and share their space.   

It got me thinking about my own road, working in the garden at the front of the house brings opportunities to interact with others walking past, and walking my dog gives me the chance to chat and start the day with some connection.  My colleagues and I often come across very isolated folk living alone and unable to get out.  What can we do to find and connect with these people, especially if they are not IT literate?

As it gets colder, and the evenings draw in, many people will face further isolation, going out less, not seeing neighbours, relying on home deliveries, so not sharing a smile in the supermarket.  Do you have a neighbour you have not seen for a while?

If so, why not knock on their door and say just that “I’m just checking you are okay, as I’ve not seen you for a while”, what is the worst that can happen? The door is closed on you?  You are accused of being a busybody?

We all imagine the worst when perhaps that person might be very grateful that someone has noticed their absence - it opens up a doorstep chat and a glimmer of friendship and care.  We are all so busy in our own lives, but a five-minute conversation might be enough to make a difference to someone else's day…give it a go today, and see, or contact your local community builder with your experiences or suggestions.