When good neighbours become Good Neighbours

I wonder if anyone would be interested in starting up a Good Neighbour Scheme in Acton, Great Waldingfield, Chilton or Little Waldingfield?

At the request of some of the Councillors at Babergh I have over recent months been investigating the issue of access to the internet in the community. In the course of my research I have come across a county wide scheme that is being promoted by the charity, Suffolk Acre which encourages the creation of ‘Good Neighbour’ networks in villages. The idea is that an organised group of volunteers offer services such as lifts, shopping, small repairs etc. etc. to those who need them. Many people say when the idea is floated that the village already has a good network of support for others, but once a formal scheme is initiated it is generally discovered that this is actually far from true.

Although help with the internet has not been at the forefront of people’s minds when these groups have started up, I have pointed out to them that help with internet access could be one of the services on offer. There are a few technical problems, and issues of privacy that need to be addressed, but with the right sort of computer literate volunteer there are many ways that people can be helped to help themselves on line.

I have met the organisers of Good Neighbour Schemes in Long Melford and Glemsford and have been very impressed with what is being achieved there, and what still might be achieved.

If there is anyone out there who would like to consider starting a group in Waldingfield Ward please let me know and I will put you in touch with the people who can help you get the project off the ground.