The Crossgates & District Good Neighbours Scheme has been sharing news and updates with the local community for many years. This archive page collects the most recent twenty posts from our volunteer team, offering a window into the activities, appeals, and successes of the scheme. From walking groups and gentle exercise classes to coffee mornings and outings, there is always something happening to bring neighbours together.

What You'll Find in the Archive

The posts on this page are a mix of practical information, invitations to get involved, and reports from past events. Volunteers like Moira and Dave regularly share updates on everything from hearing aid support to winter warmth advice. Each entry is dated, so readers can see how the scheme has evolved over time. While only the latest twenty articles are displayed here, older posts can be accessed via the full archive.

Common themes include:

• Health and wellbeing tips, such as NHS hearing aid guidance and gentle exercise classes
• Social activities like walking groups, coffee mornings, and trips to local attractions
• Calls for volunteers and offers of practical help for neighbours in need
• Updates on the scheme's development and its role in the wider community

The archive is a valuable resource for both new and long-standing members of the community. It shows how the scheme has grown and adapted while staying true to its core mission of neighbourly support.

Being a good neighbour isn't just about being friendly; it's about being there when it matters most.

Staying Active and Connected

Many posts focus on keeping residents physically active and socially engaged. The walking group has been a popular feature, with regular walks in local parks such as Roundhay Park. These walks are suitable for all abilities and provide a great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while meeting new people. Gentle exercise classes are also offered, and the scheme has previously sought to extend these classes to accommodate more participants. For those planning to join, it's worth checking our advice on comfortable clothes to make the most of each session.

The walking group is more than just exercise; it's a chance to explore the beautiful surroundings of Crossgates and beyond. Past walks have included scenic routes in Roundhay Park, and there is always a warm welcome for new members. If you're interested in joining, keep an eye on the archive for the next walk date.

Practical Support and Information

Beyond social activities, the scheme shares valuable information that affects daily life. For example, one post asks "Do you wear a NHS Hearing Aid?" and likely offers guidance on maintenance or battery collection. Other posts have covered the "Message in a Bottle" scheme, which helps emergency services access vital medical information quickly. These practical topics demonstrate the scheme's commitment to supporting neighbours in all aspects of wellbeing.

Another important area is winter support. The "Winter Warmers" post probably provided advice on staying warm and saving energy during colder months, which is crucial for older and vulnerable residents. The scheme often shares tips and signposts to local resources, showing that being a good neighbour means looking out for each other's health and safety throughout the year.

Community Events and Outings

The archive is full of reports and invitations for community get-togethers. Past events have included a visit to Castleford Civic Centre to see "Me and My Girl", a garden centre outing, and regular coffee mornings. These gatherings are a chance to meet new people and strengthen local bonds. You can find a full calendar of upcoming activities on our community events page.

Coffee mornings, in particular, have been a staple of the scheme, offering a relaxed setting for neighbours to chat and share news. Outings such as the garden centre trip provide a change of scenery and a sense of adventure, even for those who might not get out as often as they'd like. These events are made possible by volunteer drivers and organisers, and they are always keen to welcome more participants.

How You Can Help

Volunteering is at the heart of the Good Neighbours Scheme, and the archive frequently features calls for help. A post titled "Can You Help?" is a reminder that the scheme relies on local people giving their time, whether it's driving neighbours to appointments, helping with shopping, or simply being a friendly face. If you have some spare time, even an hour a week can make a real difference. The scheme also welcomes contributions to its newsletter, as shown by Gill's article.

There are many ways to get involved. You could join the walking group, help organise a coffee morning, or offer your skills in writing, IT, or DIY. The scheme is always looking for new volunteers, and the archive often includes specific requests. Check the latest posts to see what's needed right now, and don't hesitate to reach out through the contact details on the main website.

A Look Back at Earlier Posts

The archive stretches back several years, with posts from as early as spring 2005. Early entries introduce the scheme, explain who we are, and outline the initial neighbourhood scheme. There were also posts about winter warmers, which likely offered advice on staying warm and saving energy during colder months. Browsing the older articles gives a sense of how the scheme has grown and adapted to the community's needs over time.

One notable early post is from the 4th (St. Theresa's) Crossgates Brownies, which shows the scheme's engagement with younger members of the community. This partnership highlights the intergenerational spirit that underpins the Good Neighbours Scheme. Over the years, the scheme has expanded its activities and reach, but the core values of kindness, support, and neighbourliness remain unchanged.

Stay Updated

To keep up with the latest news from the Crossgates & District Good Neighbours Scheme, be sure to check this page regularly. New posts appear frequently, covering everything from upcoming events to urgent volunteer requests. For additional resources and information about local services, visit our links page, which includes helpful contacts for health, transport, and community groups.

We encourage you to browse the archive, share your own stories, and get involved in whatever way you can. Together, we can continue to make Crossgates a welcoming and supportive place for everyone.

Written by Good Neighbours