Northern Beaches Council is dropping “Hello Neighbour” cards to all Northern Beaches homes in the coming week in a bid to keep our community connected during COVID-19.

The message for residents is to reach out to neighbours who may be feeling isolated and disengaged from the community in these unprecedented times.

The card gives residents the opportunity to pass on contact details, nominate what help they can offer and then pop it in a neighbour’s mailbox or under their door.

The help could be gardening, collecting groceries, walking a dog, a friendly phone call, or helpful tips on maintaining hygiene and social distancing.

Mayor Michael Regan said the initiative would complement similar projects being conducted across the community.

“It is more important than ever to reach out if you sense a neighbour in need,’’ he said.

“Until you ask, you may not know your neighbour’s circumstances or state of mind. They could be elderly, feeling isolated, unwell or just having a tough time at the moment, especially if they have lost their job unexpectedly.

“It is important to remember we are all in this together.”

The Hello Neighbour cards reference the global hashtag #viralkindness. This initiative recognises community care groups springing up to support people in need or in self-isolation during the coronavirus crisis.

And above all in these testing times, residents should realise that health is always of paramount importance.

Following these simple steps, as advised by the Federal and State Government, are highly recommended during the COVID-19 crisis:

  • ­­­­­­­­­­­­­Stay home as often as possible
  • Keep 1.5 metres from others
  • Wash your hands with soap for 20 seconds as often as you can
  • Limit gatherings – no more than two people

For those who may be struggling at this time, here is a list of resources that may help:

  • Northern Beaches Council

1300 434 434 northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

  • Coronavirus Health Information Line

1800 020 080

  • Northern Beaches Hospital

9105 5000

  • Lifeline

13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14

  • Domestic Violence Line

1800 65 64 63

  • Kids Helpline

1800 55 1800

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