Check in on a Neighbour These Holidays

The holiday season can be a time when people feel especially isolated and lonely. Connecting with community by connecting with someone locally, whether you know them or not, can have a great impact on those people who live alone and are separated from family and friends during the holidays.

We spend so much time in the virtual space checking in on Facebook and social media, annecto are asking you to check in on a neighbour over the summer and especially around the Christmas public holidays. 

Northern Region Manager Despina Kavnoudias from annecto Coburg knows just how tough this time of year can be for people, “it’s our responsibility as a community to reach out to those people in our community who are doing it tough.”

annecto General Manager Lando Antonelli believes it’s important as a community, that we all be more considerate of our neighbours.

“We do see an increase in the amount of services and supports over the holidays and for people without close family this can create increased anxiety. Our After-Hours Service is always busy as the weather gets hotter and people basically need help.”

If you have a neighbour who lives alone, take the time to pop in and have a cup of tea with them. This is not a big commitment, but it does make a huge difference to someone who may spend a lot of time on their own.

If you find you are on your own this holiday period, there are many things you can do to stay connected and active.

• going for a walk and chatting to people on your street
• join a gym or exercise class where you’re bound to see people everyday
• catch up with a friend
• take a class and pursue your hobbies
• write a letter to friends or family to let them know you care
• call a friend or relative for a chat
• see a movie or theatre performance
• join a social media platform like Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and share your thoughts.

Also, take the time to chat with people when you are shopping this festive season.

If you are feeling sad and need to speak to someone, contact a friend or family member you already have a trusting relationship with. If you can’t reach someone you know, contact LifeLine on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Click here to find out more about annecto's home care services.