The coronavirus pandemic has shown us what the people of Bristol and the rest of the UK can do. Acts of kindness, super-neighbours, volunteering and caring for the vulnerable in our communities – these have been a silver lining to the crisis we’ve faced.

Here are some ways you can look after your neighbourhood:

• Volunteer with Can Do Bristol
• Report local flooding or Report a Street Issue on the council website.
• Join a local “Friends of” group or set one up if you don’t have one
• Find new, creative ways to start conversations in your community
• Look out for signs of change. For neighbours who may be elderly or vulnerable could make a life changing difference.
• Know your nearest community place of safety and tell your neighbours about it
• If you’re eligible, register as a vulnerable customer with your gas, water and electricity suppliers.
• Be aware in the event of an emergency and tell your neighbours about it
• Register for severe weather warnings

Research by the Young Foundation¹ shows higher levels of wellbeing in people who have regular contact with their neighbours. Knowing people in our local area – even if it is just to say hello – can make us happier and feel safer.

What has this got to do with climate change? Climate change isn’t just about reducing CO₂ emissions. It’s about getting ready for the changes that are coming. We can still avoid some of the worst impacts of climate change if we pull together.

¹https://www.youngfoundation.org/publications/neighbourliness-empowerment-wellbeing-is-there-a-formula-for-happy-communities/