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Good Neighbours' Guide

Top tips for building good relationships, so you can feel safe and happy in your neighbourhood.

 

 

Download a copy of the Guide
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We want to help you build a positive community where everyone takes responsibility for its success. But we know that differences of opinion and disputes sometimes arise, as new neighbours get used to living close to each other. 

If you need a hand resolving an issue, check out these quick tips for having useful conversations and building a strong community.

Two men walking in the park

1. Positive conversations

  • Start with a smile: A friendly greeting can set a positive tone.
  • Be respectful: Listen actively and respect different viewpoints.
  •  Use "I" statements: Express your feelings without blaming others (e.g., "I feel...").
  • Stay calm: Keep your voice steady and avoid raising it.
  • Find common ground: Focus on shared interests or goals.
Lady knocking on door with basket of goodies

2. Resolving minor disputes

  • Address issues early: Don't let small annoyances fester.
  • Choose the right time: Discuss issues when both parties are calm and have time to focus.
  • Be specific: Clearly explain the issue without generalising.
  • Offer solutions: Suggest practical ways to resolve the problem.
  • Agree to disagree: It’s okay to have different opinions.
post-it note saying 'hear, listen'

3. Tools and techniques

•    Active listening: Show you understand by summarising what the other person said.

•    Empathy: Try to see things from your neighbour's perspective.

•    Compromise: Find a middle ground where both parties can be satisfied.

•    Written agreements: For recurring issues, a simple written agreement can help.

•    Mediation: If needed, involve a neutral third party to help resolve the dispute.

Building a strong community

It will take time for your community to grow. Here are some ways to help nurture it and make great connections with the people around you.

  • Regular check-ins: Have occasional chats to maintain a good relationship.
  • Community activities: Participate in or organise neighbourhood events. Contact Sage if you would like a community event and we may be able to organise and fund this.
  •  Support each other: Offer help when needed and be open to receiving help.


About this Guide

This Good Neighbour Guide is part of Sage’s good neighbourhood management process. If you feel the situation is beyond your control and want to speak to someone about what is happening, please call our Customer Care team on 020 8168 0500.

If the situation is worsening and you are experiencing antisocial behaviour, please raise this issue through My Sage Home, your online service. Our Community Safety team will then be able to support you and help resolve any issues.