Connecting with community
Learn why community connections matter during disasters and find resources to help you build connections.
Connecting with and helping others can make you feel good. It can also help others in the community to thrive.
During a disaster, having a support network may help you manage the situation better. It might also speed up recovery.
Community ties
People connect in different ways. Some people have lots of causal connections. Others have a few close connections or enjoy more solitude.
Life circumstances and personal preferences can change these patterns over time.
During a disaster or emergency, a connection is anyone you feel you could ask for help, support or information. This might be a:
- friend
- neighbour
- local business owner
- online or local community group
- health, community or peer worker.
There are lots of ways to build connections. You can start small:
- Say hello to your neighbours.
- Chat with staff at a local business.
- Consider joining a group or volunteering.
Online communities can also offer meaningful ways to connect. The number and types of connections don’t matter.
Helping others
Emergencies can happen without warning. While some people might be well resourced and prepared, others in your community might not.
Think about those who could need help during an emergency, such as:
- people who are new to the area
- households with infants and young children
- older people living together or on their own
- people with short- or long-term disability, including cognitive, physical or social difficulties.
Before an emergency, offer support to others. Talk about how you could provide help during an emergency.
During an emergency reach out to people using a method you’ve agreed on.
If you need to leave the area, make sure that the people you’ve made plans with are aware. Check that anyone who might need support to leave has the means to do so.
Before helping someone leave, make sure their support network knows.
Map a support plan
Emergencies can be stressful when you are unsure who to contact for support. It's also essential that others are aware of your plans.
Mapping a support plan can help lower your stress during an emergency. It can also help people supporting each other feel more confident in their role.
Map your support network using our social support plan [PDF 176 KB]. If you think you might find this task difficult, talk to your doctor or health, community or peer worker first.
You could also create a short list of people you could ask for help during an emergency.
Remember people connect in different ways and all support plans will be different too.
Find local services that can support you and connect you with others.