|
|
|
|
January Edition (1)
Thanks for joining us again on the Verandah.
Well, it's been a tough holiday season for so many and it is difficult to know where to begin. We’ve had extensive fires for more than a month in several states across Australia, and with the devastation in past weeks over large tracts of the country, it’s fair to say we’re in the midst of an unprecedented disaster – to humankind, to our forests and farmland, to our beloved fauna and to property.
We encourage you to read our latest Neighbourly Blog - Love, Heroism, Generosity and Community. It gives us some hope.
Health experts say that fear and worry are normal as our country responds to the bushfire crisis. They recommend spending time with family and social networks.
It is with this in mind, in this edition we discuss how to make social connection a successful New Year's resolution, how to be a more inclusive neighbour and the unifying power of team sports.
We wish you all a safe, happy and very neighbourly year ahead.
|
|
Being Neighbourly in the New Year
To improve our fitness, eat out less, save more money, these are just some of the common New Year's resolutions that might make an appearance on our lists each year.
Although some of these we don't manage to keep (getting up early for the gym doesn't seem so appealing in the morning when you would rather sleep in), there is one resolution you could make this year that, no matter how small the amount of time you're able to invest, will have immense benefits for your wellbeing.
This year, why not commit to being more neighbourly?
Traverse the boundaries of age, background or lifestyle and start saying a friendly hello when you see your neighbours. Maybe offer your help with something, or even hold a small Neighbour Day event to get the neighbourhood chatting. For more ideas to create connections check our conversation tips.
|
|
What makes a neighbourhood inclusive?
The benefits of social interaction and social capital are available to all people, including those Australians who are living with some form of intellectual disability. However, unfortunately, people might find themselves excluded from neighbourhood events due to a lack of understanding of how to be an inclusive neighbour.
This article from The Conversation describes a safe neighbourhood as one where neighbours will 'keep an eye' out for one another, this is especially important for neighbours who may have an intellectual disability, as it can minimise their vulnerability to abuse or mistreatment.
|
|
The unifying power of team sports
When someone is feeling lonely or isolated, one of the best solutions used to help combat loneliness is to join a club or take up some kind of hobby.
Team sports provide both of these elements.
Social interaction, a sense of community with a shared interest - and not to mention much-needed exercise to help us maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is no surprise that team sports are among the most popular ways of making and preserving social ties throughout our lives.
Team sports are available to people of all ages and abilities, with options from competitive sports to recreational activities with friends.
So this year, we're challenging you to try out a sport. Find some opportunities by checking community noticeboards and Facebook groups, or start calling around to local clubs to find a team that suits you.
|
|
Days for Participation
January
Australia Day / Survival Day - 26
Back to school
February
Heart Research Month - 1-31
National Wear Red Day - 1
Safe Internet Day - 5
National Pet Adoption Day - 9
International Asperger's Day - 18
|
|
|
Relationships Australia is the home of Neighbour Day
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
