Dozens of neighbours became new friends at SBHG’s Neighbours’ Day celebration, one of 1300 events held across 30 European countries.

 

SBHG invited residents from its estates and street properties in Fulham to a mad hatter’s tea party. Children made colourful hats and had a treasure hunt. Adults relaxed in the sun, talking to neighbours.

 

Neighbours’ Day began in Paris in 2000 to help neighbours meet and build relationships. SBHG held its event on Thursday 3 June, during the half-term holiday.

 

Miss Lumturi Brshaj, who’s lived in her flat for ten years and is pictured below with her granddaughter, said: “I’ve spent time with people I’ve only ever said hello to and have made two new friends. One has also lived on the same estate as me for ten years and the other for 26 years, yet we’ve never had a conversation.  We’ve spent the afternoon talking and hopefully we’ll meet for coffee.”

 

Hammersmith MP Andy Slaughter ‘opened’ a new Neighbours Day bench donated to SBHG’s Independent Tenants’ Committee.

 

SBHG’s intouch officer Jane Sheehan said: “Making friends with neighbours makes a really big difference. It builds a sense of community and helps people feel they belong. That’s important anywhere but especially in a city like London where people can feel isolated. We help our residents celebrate Neighbours’ Day every year as it’s a perfect way to have fun and make new friends.”

 

SBHG promoted the diverse range of services it offers its residents, such as volunteering, well-being advice, home decorating and repairs and discounts with local suppliers.

 

The event and afternoon tea was sponsored by SBHG partners Quires, Mall Builders, George Jones, Poores and Pinnacle.

 

Joanna Charlton

Email: Joanna.charlton@sbhg.co.uk