Yorkshire Residents Show Strong Community Spirit in New Research by Northern Gas Networks

New research has revealed that 87% of people in Yorkshire like their neighbours, with more than two-thirds (69%) stepping in to help a neighbour in need. The findings, released today by Northern Gas Networks (NGN), support the launch of their Neighbourhood Pipeline campaign, which aims to encourage communities to look out for vulnerable residents by sharing crucial information about gas and carbon monoxide safety, energy efficiency, and support services.

Top ways Yorkshire residents help their neighbours include putting bins out (59%), looking after homes while neighbours are away (37%), lending items (36%), feeding pets (26%), and helping with gardening (24%). Some go even further, with 23% giving lifts and 22% helping with DIY.

The research also shows that 61% of people in Yorkshire have turned to their neighbours for help, with 15% of those seeking support regularly. These relationships are not just practical—60% of respondents said having a good relationship with their neighbours makes them feel safer, while 51% feel more connected to their community. Others report feeling happier (47%), more secure (37%), and less lonely (24%). Importantly, 14% say strong neighbourly ties improve their mental health.

Eileen Brown, Director of Customer Experience at NGN, highlighted the importance of these connections: “This research shows that people in Yorkshire have strong ties with their neighbours and communities, and we’re hoping to harness these relationships through our Neighbourhood Pipeline campaign.”

The campaign invites individuals, as well as community groups and organisations, to sign up and share essential safety information with hard-to-reach priority customers. These include older adults, families with young children, people with disabilities or health conditions, non-English speakers, those in rural areas, and those struggling financially.

“Some priority customers might not have access to online information or may struggle to understand it. But they might trust a good neighbour or someone from their community group,” Brown explained. “By working together, we can ensure these vulnerable individuals receive potentially life-changing information to help them stay safe and warm.”

To support the campaign, NGN is offering a toolkit that can be downloaded or ordered in print from their website. Individuals who pledge their support will receive a free coffee as a thank you, while community organisations will be entered into a prize draw to win one of five Warm and Learn Lunches for up to 50 people, complete with catering and a presentation on gas safety and energy efficiency.

To find out more about the Neighbourhood Pipeline campaign or to download the toolkit, visit Northern Gas Networks.

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