Almost three quarters of Manchester residents would like more community spirit in their neighbourhoods, a new survey has discovered.
The Big Lunch, which was launched in Albert Square yesterday, canvassed opinion from 3,000 of the city’s residents and found some staggering statistics, including the fact that 86%of people don’t consider their neighbours as friends.
In addition to that, 28 per cent – over 800 people – admitted don’t even know their neighbours by name while 37% do not think they’ll have anything in common with their neighbours.
But, all is not entirely lost.
The study also suggested that many people still wanted to get to know their neighbours with 74% those questioned saying they would like there to be more community spirit in their area.
Just over half would like to see more community events with 58% believing it would make their community a happier place to live.
The next stay of The Big Lunch is hoping to make these wishes come true by encouraging neighbours to share a few hours of food, friendship and fun on June 2.
The scheme has been met with rapid widespread success since its initiation. Last year, 8.5 million people took part in Big Lunch events in their communities across the country, a significant increase from the one million which took part in 2009.
National celebrations have undoubtedly played a part in these rising numbers, with last years’ The Big Jubilee Lunch’ announced by Buckingham Palace to celebrate The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Sir Tim Smit, co-founder of The Big Lunch, said: “It’s a shame to see that there are many people in Manchester who haven’t got the time to get to know their neighbours.
“We’re keen to change this and were delighted when 8.5million people across the UK took part in successful Big Lunches in their communities last June.
“You never know, you might even end up with a new best friend, simply from knocking on your neighbour’s door to say hello.”
Saying hello doesn’t seem quite so simple looking at the statistics, however.
The study found almost a quarter of people in Manchester have never knocked on their neighbours’ doors, and when they have knocked, the main reason has been to collect a parcel.
Lord Mayor of Manchester Councillor Elaine Boyes said the primary reason for this is a lack of spare time.
She said: “While we do have an extremely vibrant community it can sometimes be hard to find the time to get to know your neighbours properly.
“The Big Lunch is the perfect excuse to get together, enjoy a bite to eat and a have chat with your neighbour – with any luck friendships will be created that will far outlast the lunch and bring us all closer together.”
Another stat revealed that only 13% of people have invited neighbours to a party or BBQ.
Behavioural Expert Judi James, suggested that the incentives offered by the Big Lunch will encourage neighbours to get to know each other.
She said: “We need a good reason for knocking on the door and The Big Lunch is just that, the perfect ice-breaker that gets everyone involved in a positive experience.”
For further information, or to request your free pack containing invitations, a planner, posters and other materials to help organise your own Big Lunch, visit: www.thebiglunch.com
Picture courtesy of The Big Lunch, with thanks.
