The return of the ‘village spirit’

When was the last time you knocked on a neighbour’s door to ask for help? For years, long commutes, rigid working hours and the convenience of doing everything online have meant many of us barely knew the people living next door. But as flexible living reshapes our daily routines and household pressures continue to mount, something is shifting – Britain’s streets are beginning to feel more like villages again.

New research from Nextdoor reveals neighbourly support is on the up with half (50%) of Brits turning to their neighbours for help over the past 12 months, as support across the country rises 19% year-on-year.

The report signals the return of the village spirit, as people increasingly turn to those living closest to them for practical everyday help. More than a third (36%) depend on a neighbour to check on their home while they were away, followed by asking for help moving heavy items and furniture (24%).

Aston spoke to evolutionary anthropologist, writer & broadcaster Dr Anna Machin and Alice Skeats from Nextdoor.