Engaging with your neighbours can help you avoid dangerous isolation - that was the message from rural organisation, Macra na Feirme, as they launch the annual Know Your Neighbour Weekend. The initiative, in its seventh year, aims to bring communities together to socialise and have fun. Know Your Neighbour Weekend will take place on July 14-15.
Macra National president, Alan Jagoe, said, “I am calling on rural communities to get together and hold a Know Your Neighbour event on July 14 and 15 with the hopes of reducing isolation.
“Stories of those living in isolation who die unnoticed are becoming too common and we are encouraging everyone to get to know their neighbours better. Isolation is dangerous - to our mental health and when we find ourselves in need of help and support. Knowing your neighbour will enrich your life and provide a sense of community.”
Macra is calling on people and groups in communities to hold a Know Your Neighbour event such as a coffee morning, a BBQ, a themed party, or a field day. It is an opportunity for neighbours to get together in a fun and informal environment. Taking the time to build these relationships will ensure you have the support network you may rely on in the future.
Those interested in holding an event can find more information on www.knowyourneighbour.ie where they will get event ideas, tips, and resources they can download. Just register your event on www.knowyourneighbour.ie or by texting KYN followed by your name and address to 51444.
Send in your event photos to [email protected] before July 31 to be in with the chance to win either a Saorview approved TV or a One For All Voucher worth €150. Prizes courtesy of Saorview.
