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Family Groups - Impact on neighbours
Neighbourliness is in such decline in Britain that less than
half of people surveyed would call on their neighbours in
an emergency, according to a report published today.
Although most people would like a return to the days of close-knit
communities, two thirds believe that their neighbours are
becoming more distant.
Not only is erosion of trust a growing problem, but 16 per
cent of people see their neighbours only in passing, and one
in 20 admits they do not know their neighbours at all.
However, most people still believe that stronger neighbourhoods
can help cut crime or support people in times of trouble.
Phil Loney, managing director of Lloyds TSB Insurance, which
commissioned the research by ICM among 1,008 people, said:
"None of us will ever live on Ramsey Street [the fictional
setting for the Australian soap opera Neighbours].
"But, surprisingly, very few of us are willing to make
the most of the neighbours we do have. It is ironic that as
we find ourselves living in closer quarters with our neighbours,
our relationships are becoming even more distant."
While most people have become accustomed to changes in the
social landscape, they have not abandoned their idea of close-knit
communities.
More than nine out of 10 people believe closer communal ties
would have a positive impact on their lives.
Two thirds said stronger bonds would make it easier to turn
to neighbours for help or in an emergency, while a quarter
believed it would cut crime.
However, in reality, most people were resigned to the fact
that communities were fragmenting.
More than 60 per cent blamed the pressures of family life
and work, while four in 10 deliberately kept their distance
to avoid getting too involved in their neighbours' affairs.
One in five claimed they lived next door to the "neighbours
from hell".
Mr Loney said: "It is worrying that although we recognise
the benefits of close neighbourhoods, the pressures of modern
life are getting in the way. We should have alarms, locks
and insurance but we do seem to be neglecting the simplest
security technique - a quick hello to the people next door."
Martin Lloyd Elliot, a psychologist at the Eden Medical Centre
in Chelsea, central London, said: "We are social creatures.
Our whole way of life is based on community and co-operation
and yet, because of our fear of others, people seem to be
afraid to make the first move.
"The danger is that by disconnecting from our neighbours,
we isolate ourselves and this perpetuates the fear and mistrust
we have of others. It becomes a vicious spiral."
Daily telegraph 24th May 2004
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