Key to fostering Christmas relationships in your neighbourhood

After a year that can at best be described as ‘challenging’, it’s a relief to many to be able to renew connections and perhaps even forge new ones this Christmas.

It’s getting to that time of year when everyone is making plans to meet up with family and friends.

After a year that can at best be described as ‘challenging’, it’s a relief to many to be able to renew connections and perhaps even forge new ones.

Because if there was a silver lining to the past two years, it has been the opportunity to get to know our neighbourhoods and our neighbours better.

National executive officer of Relationships Australia, Nick Tebbey, says there are so many small things we can do to foster closer ties to those we live closest to. And the benefits are obvious.

Like any relationship, often the best way forward with neighbours is not to go in too hard, too early.

Q. I’ve just recently moved into a new house with my family. How do I get to know my neighbours without it being awkward?

A. Like any relationship, Nick says often the best way forward with neighbours is not to go in too hard, too early. “The smaller you start, the better chance you have of building something sustainable. A friendly nod or a quick hello is fine,” he says.

If you want to step it up a notch, he says you could strike up a conversation relating to the neighbourhood or something everyone is talking about, like how they’re managing post-lockdown. Nick points out that at this time of year, people are often be harvesting backyard crops. Offering your surplus spinach, lemons or lettuces to your neighbours can provide the perfect excuse to say hello.

Many neighbourhood groups have now moved online. Look on Facebook for one in your suburb or start your own WhatsApp group to keep everyone informed of the latest news. The important thing, says Nick, is to keep conversation respectful.

“The key basics online are to really promote the idea that it is a place for positivity and respectful communication,” he says.

“If you have personal grievances with a particular neighbour, take it up with them directly.”

Whether you’ve just moved in or you have lived in the same house for 10 years, it’s never too late to get to know your neighbours better.

Q. Why should I bother?

A. Aside from the sense of wellbeing many people experience from knowing their neighbours better, there are some very practical benefits, especially when problems arise.

“Neighbourhood disputes happen all the time,” says Nick.

“But if people have good, respectful relationships before those disputes happen, then they are much more likely to resolve them quickly and amicably. If your first contact with your neighbour is around a disagreement or a dispute, it can be more difficult to resolve.”

Knowing your neighbours can also be convenient if you need someone to care for the family pet while you’re away, or you have left for work without bringing your bins in.

Q. I’d love to live in one of those streets where they have street parties at Christmas. How do I get something like that going?

A. Whether you’ve just moved in or you have lived in the same house for 10 years, it’s never too late to get to know your neighbours better, and Christmas provides the perfect opportunity to do that.

Nick says it is easier in some neighbourhoods than others, simple because of geography.

“Apartment complexes are great for holding events in a common courtyard and it is often a little easier to organise a neighbourhood event if you live in a cul-de-sac,” he says.

“The busier the street, the harder it is to be certain of safety.”

A street Christmas party is a great way to connect with your neighbours.

If you do live on a busier street, a nature strip or someone’s front yard might be a better option. Nick says to be sure to invite everyone – even the grumpy neighbour down the road – and let people make up their own minds.

“A street Christmas party is a great way to connect with your neighbours and it’s low risk from a social angle,” he says.

“I would recommend people start with talking to one or two neighbours that they already have a relationship with so that you can create some critical mass for the event.”

Robyn Willis is The Fixer. here to answer all your home improvement, renovation and repair questions. Email us at [e-mail]