Strangers next door

New research from the Post Office and Neighbourhood Watch has found that millions of people across the UK no longer know who their neighbours are.

More worryingly, one third of people also felt threatened by the anti-social behaviour in their communities, but of those that participated in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme the numbers were a lot less.

Roy Rudham, chairman of the National Neighbourhood Watch Association (NNWA), said: “The study out today reflects the true concerns of Britain today – with anti-social behaviour and personal safety top of the list. It also shows that getting to know your neighbour helps make communities safer.”

However, it is hoped that by introducing more Neighbourhood Watch schemes across the country more people will benefit from the feeling of living amongst a community where they are safe.

Claire Oldstein, head of home insurance at the Post Office, concluded: “Less crime in an area also means lower household premiums for all so everyone benefits.”

So for those wishing to benefit from lower household premiums, getting to know the strangers next door could prove to be of value.