Settling into your new neighbourhood [Infographic]

Moving to a new neighbourhood can be challenging, particularly if you don’t know anyone. You might feel isolated, to begin with, or like you’re an outsider. However, you can take comfort that these feelings won’t last forever. There are things you can do to speed up the process of settling into your new neighbourhood. You’ll become a valued part of your community in no time at all.

Moving into a new neighbourhood hints and tips.

Introduce yourself 

One of the simplest ways to settle into your new neighbourhood is to introduce yourself to your neighbours. On the day you move in, you may find that people pop over to say hello. Whilst you’re likely to be stressed due to the move, it’s a good idea to be pleasant. Smile and introduce yourself and your family. You could also go round to your neighbours’ houses once you’re unpacked and you feel more relaxed. Make friendly conversation and ask questions such as what the bins go out or where the nearest park is located. 

Throw a housewarming party

Throwing a housewarming party can be a great way to get to know your new neighbours. Whilst it doesn’t need to be the party of the century, arranging a get-together with a few drinks, snacks, and games can help to break the ice and allow you to become better acquainted with the people on your street. Building a strong connection with your new neighbours can help you to start settling into your new neighbourhood as quickly as possible. 

Start exploring

As much as you love your new house and want to make it feel like home as quickly as possible, it’s important to get out and about and start exploring. Take the time to venture into your new village or town and find out what it has to offer. Visit the local restaurants, coffee shops, and stores and introduce yourself. We recommend exploring on foot rather than in the car if possible. This will allow you to chat with new people if the opportunity arises. 

Pay a visit to the local pub

The local pub is often the hub of a community. Not only is it where people gather and socialise but it also tends to a focal point for neighbourhood events. So, when you move somewhere new, it’s a good idea to visit your local pub for a drink. Instead of sitting down at a table, stand at the bar so you can meet people more easily. You can chat with the staff and ask them to introduce you to the regulars. You could also find out if there’s a weekly quiz night since these events are great for meeting the locals. 

Find local playgroups

If you’re moving house with children, we recommend finding local playgroups. Not only does this give your kids a chance to make new friends, but it also lets you meet new people in your area. Attend those groups closest to your new house so that can meet other parents on your street. You can then start arranging playdates and building a network. Facebook can often be a good platform for finding local playgroups nearby to you. If you have very young children, moving house can sometimes feel isolating. However, rather than staying indoors because it feels easier, make the effort to get out and about and start meeting local people – it will benefit you greatly in the long-run. 

Do good deeds for your neighbours

Showing you’re a good neighbour can help make settling in your new neighbourhood so much easier. Whilst you don’t need to go overboard, there are little things you can do to show that you are indeed an asset to the street. For example, you could accept a neighbour’s parcel if they’re not home, put their rubbish bin out if they have forgotten, or offer to water their plants for them whilst they’re away. Often, it’s the small gestures that show you’re a good neighbour and help you to become part of the community.

Join the Neighbourhood Watch

Joining the local Neighbourhood Watch group can help you to better settle into your area. The group aims to help people to protect their neighbourhood and reduce the fear of crime by improving home security, reporting suspicious incidents, and promoting community spirit. Not only will you help to make your street a better, safer place to live but you’ll also meet plenty of new people in your area who share your values. An added bonus is that many home insurers offer a discount to people who are part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Volunteer for a local community project 

Volunteering for a local community project can help you to meet new people who share your interests and values. Whether it’s helping out at a homeless shelter, assisting the scout group, or joining a litter picking event, getting involved in such projects can help you to become a part of the community. 

Spend time in your front garden 

Rather than hiding away in your back garden, spend more time at the front of your home to meet new people on your street. Tidy up your front garden, sweep your driveway, fix the fence, or even wash out your wheelie bins. Make yourself visible and give people a chance to come and say hello if they want to. The more noticeable you are, the more quickly you will begin settling into your new neighbourhood.  

Contact us 

Darvills has been providing removals in Halifax and Bradford for many years, so why not get in touch and find out more about our services? We can help make moving to your new neighbourhood a stress-free experience. Call us to discuss your removal needs with one of our team. You can also fill in the form on our website to receive a quote.