A poll of 2,000 Brits has found the things that make a perfect community – from friendly neighbours to a local pub and a sense of belonging
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Top things that make a good community
A recent poll of 2,000 Brits has revealed the top 40 things that make a great community, with helpful neighbours, regular litter pickers and a decent local pub topping the list. The research also highlighted the importance of well-maintained community gardens, reliable public transport and running or walking groups in creating a wholesome living environment.
Other key factors included low crime rates, small local businesses and having a convenience store nearby. According to the study, living in a nice community leads to 68% of people taking pride in their local area and doing what they can to make it a friendly and welcoming place.
The research was commissioned by SPAR UK, which is launching its third Community Cashback scheme, giving away a total of £100,000 in grants to local voluntary or community organisations and charities on behalf of its shoppers.
Suzanne Dover, from the community retailer, said: “There is nothing better than a community that comes together and it’s great to see how people across the UK care about their local communities. We are passionate about nurturing neighbourhoods and empowering people to make a positive difference to where they live. The results show that it’s the people above anything else that create a strong community.”
The study also found that 32% of respondents believe well-maintained gardens contribute to making a community perfect. The same percentage of people are keen on having a recycling centre, and 28% love the idea of regular weekend market stalls for local produce.
In the survey, 45% of participants felt they were part of their community, and 59% would recommend it as a great place to live. Volunteering is also seen as crucial, with 19% lending a hand at organisations and charities in their area.
Among these volunteers, a quarter do so two or three times a week – most likely at charity shops (22%) or community development schemes like litter picking (22%). Almost half (46%) volunteer because they want to make a difference, and 43% enjoy helping their local people.
Local communities also show support by organising fundraising events such as cake sales and charity runs. And 40% agree that there are individuals in their neighbourhood who deserve special recognition for their help.
The study revealed that 49% know their neighbours quite well, with 65% taking in deliveries for them, and 41% bringing in bins on collection day. One in five even exchange birthday and Christmas gifts – and 16% will drop in to feed a pet during the holiday season.
The research, conducted via OnePoll.com, found that 37% of Brits would go as far as to say the community they live in is ‘perfect’. However, of those who could see room for improvement, 31 % would like to see better maintenance of public spaces, and 30% are calling for more affordable housing options.
Suzanne Dover chimed in: “Our grant scheme is aimed at supporting and giving back to the communities where we have our shops. We’ve witnessed first-hand how much last year’s grant winners benefitted from this scheme and know that together, we are making a real difference in communities.”
TOP 40 THINGS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO A PERFECT COMMUNITY:.
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Friendly neighbours.
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Low crime rates.
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Helpful neighbours.
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People who look out for each other.
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Healthcare services.
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Parks and play areas.
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Reliable public transport.
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A sense of belonging.
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Small local businesses.
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Local pub.
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A convenience store.
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Welcoming shop owners.
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Community library.
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Lively high street or town centre.
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Affordable housing for young people.
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Bars and restaurants.
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A community centre.
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Dog-friendly walks.
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A leisure centre.
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Village Hall.
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Maintained community gardens.
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Recycling centres.
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Seasonal activities such as Christmas choirs.
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Local nurseries and childcare.
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Regular litter pickers.
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Good Ofsted schools.
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Weekend market stalls.
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Neighbourhood Watch.
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Gardening plots and allotments.
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Youth groups.
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Health and wellness groups.
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Sports teams and leagues.
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Charity shops.
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Local food banks and community kitchens.
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Running and walking groups.
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Scout and girl guide groups.
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Fundraising events.
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An animal rescue team.
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Renewable energy initiatives.
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A welcoming gym.
