Neighbour day is celebrated annually on the last Sunday in March - a social connection campaign by Relationships Australia encouraging people to reach out and make sustainable connections. The theme for 2024 is ‘Create Belonging | Share Belonging’.
We can all take actions to create and share belonging: for ourselves, for our families and for our neighbours. We can do this by focusing on genuine inclusion and connection, making others welcome and by building respectful relationships with those around us.
The Chatty Café is based at the Murray Bridge Wellbeing Hub, The Square, 2 South Terrace, Murray Bridge every Thursday between 10.30am to 12.30pm. This global initiative centres on connecting communities and reducing social isolation in country communities. Reach out to your neighbour and invite them along for a cuppa and a chat at the Chatty Café!
Neighbour Day is officially being celebrated on Sunday 31 March (Easter Sunday). Holiday time can be especially difficult for some who might be feeling socially isolated.
These 5 tips from Relationships Australia could help to start a conversation and establish respectful relationships with your neighbours;
- Start with a smile – make a habit of giving a friendly smile, even in chaotic moments!
- The initial chat – start with a genuine compliment or query as an icebreaker
- Follow up – next time you catch-up, follow up on what you spoke about last time
- Kind gestures – consider what you might be able to offer e.g. bringing in bins, watering gardens
- Host an event – organise a Neighbour Day event either on Neighbour Day or a time that suits you
Celebrate your neighbours, have a chat and make new friends!