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Win a £150 Waterstones voucher and a copy of The Switch *NOW CLOSED*

(817 Posts)
NatashaGransnet (GNHQ) Fri 17-Apr-20 10:30:29

To celebrate the release of The Switch by Beth O'Leary we're giving one lucky gransnetter the chance to win a £150 Waterstones voucher, along with a copy of the book. We're also giving two runners-up £50 worth of Waterstones vouchers each as well as a copy of the book.

More details on the prize can be found HERE and T&Cs HERE. We will pick a winner after 11am on 23rd May.

To enter simply tell us... How important is it for people of all ages to feel connected to their community?

You must be a registered Gransnet user to enter. Sign up to Gransnet HERE if you haven't done so already.

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Carolann99 Fri 22-May-20 19:47:46

In these uncertain times it is even more important for people of all ages to feel connected to their community. It will help to a certain extent to prevent the feelings of loneliness and depression

highrising51 Fri 22-May-20 19:50:50

Important in as far as people want to be - you shouldn't be forced to participate in things or feel awkward if they're not your bag, but everyone should feel part of of something, even if it is just a friendly smile.

Tango46 Fri 22-May-20 20:00:32

Individuals within the community feel stronger and valued when interest and kindness is shown to one another.
By being good neighbours this makes everyone feel appreciated and the whole community benefits.

stcuthbert Fri 22-May-20 20:01:06

Stay connected, stay safe and spirits up

mamagill Fri 22-May-20 20:02:16

The less connected people are, the more isolated people feel. If Covid has taught us anything, it's that kindness costs nothing, and looking out for others may become the norm

dobijean Fri 22-May-20 20:06:20

Not feeling isolated

Jhill11 Fri 22-May-20 20:12:55

It’s incredibly important for people of all ages to know we have others we can turn to for help and support, especially in times like these, it gives us a sense of belonging.

Greengablecat Fri 22-May-20 20:31:43

Community is vital to stay connected and for a sense of worth and openess so you never feel lonely

louisep8260 Fri 22-May-20 20:33:00

Veet important as it can help with loneliness

Tulabelle Fri 22-May-20 20:41:23

Community is the lifeblood of local society. The cohesiveness it produces gives a sense of safety and security to all within the group, as well as providing an opportunity to learn from each other, respect each other and look after each other and our property. It fosters tolerance and broadens horizens, dispels loneliness and avoids exclusion. It is truly amazing and seems to have had a rebirth in current times.

essexgirl46 Fri 22-May-20 20:53:17

The feeling that you belong to somewhere is primal, it is what makes us behave with compassion and empathy to others. Growing up without feelings of community can mean we don't develop, and grow potential in the same way, we won't identify with others, give the best of ourselves and can deviate towards behaviours that could be hurtful to ourselves and to others. As we grow older connecting with community stops us from feeling lonely and unfulfilled. I'd say it is probably the most important thing once our basic needs for food and shelter have been fulfilled.

rainbowbutterfly Fri 22-May-20 21:12:32

It's extremely important and often overlooked. The elderly or disabled will get lonely, and some may never see another person for weeks. If they aren't on social media or in local groups they would not be missed, so sad. We should care for each other.

mrspale Fri 22-May-20 21:28:50

I think it is really important for people of all ages to feel connected to their community. A good community can provide so much support to young and old.

kazzycomp12 Fri 22-May-20 21:43:05

People need to connect to the community so everyone is helped and as happy as can be in this present climate

tracezeus1 Fri 22-May-20 21:45:08

It's paramount as nobody of any age should feel isolated from the community it's where you spend at lot of your life and it should be an inclusive environment

kaf30 Fri 22-May-20 21:59:16

A level of connectivity is essential for people of all ages- but it does differ depending on personality. Sometimes a few strong connections are all that's needed; sometimes a much wider network. There's no 'right' way of being- and it can put pressure on those more comfortable in their own space to be involved when they'd prefer not to be.

CamCam12 Fri 22-May-20 22:13:42

It's very important for people to stay connected, although it is so difficult in these times.

adrianthornton Fri 22-May-20 22:13:51

Very.

Hannah88 Fri 22-May-20 22:26:51

Very important, my Dad has recently started going to a bereavement group since we lost my Mum and it’s doing him the world of good to meet new people in the community

bayview Fri 22-May-20 22:27:24

Lockdown is a great chance to read lots and sunbathe

janinex Fri 22-May-20 22:47:04

It's not just important, it's crucial at the moment for everyone's mental health

boxfords Fri 22-May-20 22:51:13

I feel it is very important for people of all ages to feel connected to their community. However I do worry that the virus will make this more difficult over time, especially if social distancing is here to stay.

grannybiker Fri 22-May-20 23:23:14

If people of any age feel connected and included in their communities it promotes a sense of ownership and pride that can only be a good thing.
Loving the idea of young children and older folk interacting more. I've seen for myself how everyone in the old folks home perked up when I took our pre-schooler granddaughter and her big brother in to see their great Grandma

Fairlyodd77 Fri 22-May-20 23:37:16

Super important. It's important for you mental health and wellbeing. Plus older generation have a lot to teach younger generations

MrsRobert60 Fri 22-May-20 23:40:52

I think some people need the connection more than others. As an introvert in lockdown I have enjoyed the lack of physical connection. I prefer my own company and am satisfied at the moment with online friendships. I realise that this is probably unusual and that most people are sociable beings!