In an ever-changing environment, neighbours across Australia are coming together to offer support to those who may be affected by coronavirus (Covid-19). From delivering groceries to the elderly, to picking up prescriptions and giving away free toilet paper, neighbours are uniting on Nextdoor to help those that need it the most.
As more people are staying home due to Covid-19, Nextdoor is in a unique position to help neighbours remain connected and calm.
I have been contributing to the discussion in my own neighbourhood in Sydney, but I have also had the privilege of seeing some of the amazing acts of kindness in yours.
With everything changing on a daily basis, we’ve put together some tips to help you stay safe and connected over the coming weeks, as circumstances change and challenge us all.
People in every community will face the challenges of Covid-19 in some way. If you are fit and healthy and have the time to help others, why not offer your support to neighbours on Nextdoor. There are lots of things you can do to help, just make sure you follow the current Department of Health guidelines to ensure your own safety first:
- Checking in on older or more vulnerable neighbours virtually or one the phone
- Deliver food shopping
- Pick up prescriptions
- Donate food to food banks
- Create care packages with essential items for those in need
- Look after your neighbours pets
- Offer time and support
People in every community will face the challenges of Covid-19 in some way. If you are fit and healthy and have the time to help others, why not offer your support to neighbours on Nextdoor. There are lots of things you can do to help, just make sure you follow the current Department of Health guidelines to ensure your own safety first:
- Checking in on older or more vulnerable neighbours virtually or one the phone
- Deliver food shopping
- Pick up prescriptions
- Donate food to food banks
- Create care packages with essential items for those in need
- Look after your neighbours pets
A great way to coordinate volunteering efforts is to create a group on Nextdoor. On Nextdoor you can create groups to bring your neighbours together on a particular topic, cause or issue. It is a great way to organise, take action and get things done. You can create a group just for your neighbourhood, your nearby neighbourhoods, or a city-wide group. Find out how to create a group here. The group can be a great way to support anyone who may be anxious about Covid-19 and you can use it as a place to share the correct advice from the Department of Health.
- Digitally check in on your neighbours
As self-isolation increases, we need to find new ways to stay connected and check in on one another for our physical and mental wellbeing. Your neighbours may feel lonely and a simple chat can go a long way. You can use Nextdoor to digitally check in on your neighbours. Simply post a message to the entire neighbourhood to see how they are doing or send a private message. You could also suggest a video call to make it more personal – a digital coffee morning!
- Finding those who need help
Finding those who need help the most is easier than you think. Here are a few hints and tips:
- Create a post on Nextdoor to reach out to your local community to see if anyone needs help or knows of anyone who is struggling
- Take the time to acquaint yourself with your direct neighbours. Leave a note introducing yourself and with your contact details. Is your neighbour on Nextdoor? If not, suggest they join Nextdoor to stay up-to-date.
We’ve already seen some amazing examples of neighbours helping one another. Here are some of our favourites and they are pouring in from every state and territory.
NSW
VICTORIA
QUEENSLAND
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
VICTORIA
We have also seen several people in the medical profession sharing information on Nextdoor, including a retired assistant Professor of Virology at the University of Southern California who continues to update his Brisbane community on what the virus means and how people can prepare. His posts have developed into essential information for his neighbours, who have responded with many questions, but also ‘ thank yous’ to Tom. What started out as a simple post on Nextdoor has gone on to gain over 250 comments of neighbours offering to help those in their area who might need it.
Please take care, and keep reaching out to one another. In challenging times like these, connection is key.
Extra Resources:
For more information, read the latest transcripts and media releases from our Chief Medical Officer and our Deputy Chief Medical Officer about coronavirus (COVID-19) in our news section.
You can also see updates in media releases and transcripts from Minister Hunt relating to coronavirus on the Health Ministers’ site.
For questions about testing or the welfare of people with the virus, contact your state or territory health authority.
