Six ways to keep The Big Lunch spirit alive
If you're buzzing after The Big Lunch and you're looking for the next step, there are lots of ways to keep the connections going.
1. Send a thank you note
If you held a Big Lunch or took part in one locally, why not send a little follow up note to your neighbours? It’s a nice way to start the conversation about your next get together and let people know you had a lovely time.
We’ve got a range of graphics and e-cards with uplifting messages which would be perfect for the job!
2. Set up a way to keep in touch
Now you’ve met new people in your community, it’s nice to find a way to stay in touch and keep the connection going. That might be a neighbourhood WhatsApp group, a Facebook group or page, or even an email update for larger community groups. Do whatever works for your community and encourage people to share, chat and arrange their own meet-ups or events!
Nextdoor is a really helpful way to keep up with local news and share things locally. The ‘For Sale and Free’ section is a great place for selling and getting hold of things you need more cheaply. You can also set up groups and run polls – handy for planning your next event and finding dates that work for everyone!
3. Join in with the Month of Community
The Month of Community is a time to come together to celebrate everything that makes our communities great. A whopping 14.2 million people took part in June 2023, to cheers volunteers, connect with their neighbours, welcome refugees, support carers, raise awareness of loneliness, or simply to say thank you.
Our partners host a variety of events and things you can do, from film evenings to nominating a carer in your life. It’s a brilliant way to spread some joy and support others.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’d like to do more to support your community, we’ve got loads of resources to help you get started, and a team of people on the ground to support you.
4. Spread a little kindness
Our research into the impact of the cost of living crisis has shown that we’re all becoming more aware of the hardship faced by others in our community and that 14% of UK adults are concerned about their own welfare and food security. But it’s heartening to also learn that one in three people want to find ways to connect and support others locally.
One of our team has a friend dropping bags of fruit to them every Wednesday after a visit to the market. Another neighbour regularly cooks up a storm and shares her delicious dishes up and down the street. These edible acts of kindness are not only gratefully received, they make us feel more connected too.
But it needn’t involve food, simply bringing in the neighbours’ bin, offering to take their dog for a walk or watching their child for a bit are lovely ways to spread a little kindness – and without spending a penny.
5. Arrange a playing out session
The bunting might be down, but if you’re keen to continue The Big Lunch vibe, organising a Play Street is great next step. Some neighbourhoods like to organise to close their road again, while others might head to a local park or use someone’s garden or driveway. Get out the bubbles, chalk, toys and games for the children to play with and let their imaginations run wild.
Our friends at Playing Out have all the information and advice you need to go from street party to Play Street – and if it goes well, you might be able to make arrangements with your council to make it a regular affair.
6. Meet like-minded people
If you hosted a Big Lunch and you loved the experience so much you want to do more, we host opportunities throughout the year to meet and connect with other community-minded people. They’re a great way to share ideas, gain useful information and contacts, and generally surround yourself with positivity.
From our regular online monthly meet-ups and online courses to community action taster days and weekends, there’s something for everyone.
