Social cohesion begins in neighbourhoods

In episode 5, Anthea Hancocks, CEO of the Scanlon Foundation Research Institute talks to Em James (Australian Neighbourhood Houses and Centres Association) and Rosita Vincent (Neighbourhood Collective Australia) about the important role neighbourhood houses play in building social cohesion. 

Key takeaways:

• Crucial role of neighbourhood houses: Neighbourhood houses and centres play a significant role in community leadership and place-based work. They provide spaces for people to gather, share dreams and hopes, and forge connections. For example, Rosita Vincent, who has lived and worked in Bendigo for over 15 years, found the neighbourhood centres instrumental in helping her integrate into the community. The centres offered a space where she could meet others, discuss her aspirations, and build social connections, particularly in a place with a strong ex-pat community from Melbourne and a changing demographic profile.
• Strength-based community development: A strengths-based approach in community development focuses on the assets and strengths of individuals and communities. Instead of addressing gaps or deficiencies, this approach enhances what is already strong within the community. Rosita discusses how the Old Church on the Hill in Bendigo uses this approach. The centre curates vibrant community spaces and events, such as the Feast of Stories, where people from different backgrounds come together to cook, share, and connect through storytelling.
• Community engagement and participation: Social cohesion is fostered through inclusion, connection, and belonging. Neighbourhood houses create opportunities for people to care for each other, leading to shared activities like community gardens, history groups, and local business associations. Em James highlights the New Farm Neighbourhood Centre in Queensland, where a local chef, despite needing support himself, contributed by cooking meals for others using donated food. This act of mutual support and engagement exemplifies the essence of social cohesion.
• Adapting to community needs: Neighbourhood houses in different states and regions have variations in funding and governance structures. They adapt to the specific needs and aspirations of their communities, playing a key role in disaster response and recovery. In Yeronga, Queensland, when the area was flooded, the neighbourhood centre became a hub for mobilizing support. People dropped off baked goods, volunteered, and sought help, demonstrating how these centres can be activated to support community resilience in times of crisis.
• Collaboration with local councils: Effective collaboration between neighbourhood centres and local councils can achieve amazing outcomes. Em James believes that neighbourhood centres and local governments can accomplish great things together when they work well. They discusses the importance of participatory budgeting, where councils engage with local communities to decide how funds should be spent. This collaborative approach ensures that the community's voice is heard and that resources are allocated in ways that meet local needs.
• Social cohesion and belonging: Social cohesion is a crucial aspect of a community, where people are seen as fellow humans and valued for their contributions. Em and Rosita emphasise the importance of creating opportunities for people to connect and support each other. This can lead to shared activities that foster a sense of belonging, such as community gardens or local business associations. Em mentions the concept of ‘putting both feet’ into the community, encouraging people to fully engage and invest in their local area.

Discover more about the inspiring work of neighbourhood houses and their impact on social cohesion by tuning into our podcast. Listen to the full episode via or watch below!