South Gloucestershire Council and Age UK South Gloucestershire are urging residents to be good neighbours this winter by checking in on vulnerable and isolated neighbours.
The ‘Good Neighbours’ campaign first ran earlier this year with a series of videos showing how support and social groups help older people feel more connected and part of their community. Widowers and carers for their partners with dementia were among those who explained how having regular events to go to, one on one visits at home and tailored help, has given them hope and helped their own mental health.
This winter, South Gloucestershire residents are being asked to do their part by checking in on elderly neighbours especially those who live alone.
Chief executive of age UK South Gloucestershire, Mark Flower, said: “Loneliness is one of the most common things our clients face. It is heartbreaking, some people come to our office every week because that is the only social interaction they have.
“We wouldn’t want our parents or grandparents to sit outside their homes waiting, hoping that someone will talk to them but that is something we have seen happening in South Gloucestershire in 2025.
“We are proud to be working with South Gloucestershire Council to tackle loneliness.”
Councillor John O’Neill, South Gloucestershire Council’s cabinet member responsible for adults and housing, said: “We can all be a good neighbour. Just saying hello can really make someone’s day but you may also find that you forge new friendships and connections yourself.
“The Good Neighbours scheme gives us all an opportunity to do something for our older residents, and we are very grateful to Age UK South Gloucestershire for all the work they already do to support our elderly population.”
You can be a good neighbour and help someone who is struggling or is lonely:
- Drop in for a cup of tea and a chat
- Ask if they would like help mowing the lawn or mending simple things at home
- Offer to pick up some groceries or prescriptions
- See if they need a lift to a medical appointment or to one of our Community Welcome Spaces to meet other people
- Help them set up a video call with their family
- Brighten their day with some flowers or a tasty treat
- Leave a note if they don’t seem comfortable with face-to-face conversations.
You can find out more about our Good Neighbours campaign by watching our videos on Facebook page.
If you are concerned about someone who could benefit from Age UK South Gloucestershire’s help call 01454 411707 or email info@ageuksouthglos.org.uk
