This section will cover the following subjects relating to:
You community will include:
A good relationship with your Landlord means: your home is kept safe, repairs can be carried out, landlord will give notice before visits, and protect your tenancy rights.
Your responsibilities: Pay rent on time, look after the property, report repairs, and follow tenancy rules.
Why it matters:
A strong relationship with your landlord can mean the difference between problems being solved quickly or dragging on for weeks. When trust and good communication exist, repairs get done faster, misunderstandings are reduced, and you are more likely to keep your tenancy long term. Poor communication, on the other hand, can lead to stress, disputes, or even eviction.
If you need to seek support or make a complaint about your landlord you can do so through the Citizens Advice service here.
Living alongside others means sharing space respectfully.
✅ OK behaviour: normal day-to-day noise, children playing, cooking smells.
❌ Not OK: regular loud music at night, harassment, damaging shared areas.
Building a positive community:
• Say hello, check in, and show respect.
• Keep communal spaces clean.
• Resolve issues calmly before they escalate.
Why it matters:
Good neighbour relationships help you feel safe and part of a community. Supportive neighbours may keep an eye on your property, share useful local information, or lend a hand in emergencies. Difficult relationships, however, can create stress, isolation, and even complaints to your landlord.
Your community has many services that can make life easier:
• GP (Doctor): First stop for health issues, prescriptions, referrals.
• Dentist: For oral health register locally, NHS options available.
• Library: Free internet, computers, books, printing, study space, and events.
• Gym/leisure centre: Exercise improves wellbeing and social connections.
• Local shops: Easy access to essentials and an opportunity to meet people.
Why it matters:
Using community services helps you live independently and stay well. A GP or dentist keeps your health on track before small issues become major problems. Libraries give free access to resources you might not be able to afford at home, like internet and printers. Leisure centres encourage healthy routines and reduce stress. Local shops not only save travel time but also help build connections with local people, giving you a sense of belonging.
Who would you consider in your support network? Could be family, friends or professionals. It also involves your own self-care like going to the gym or being involved in paid or volunteering activities.
There are also websites like Eventbrite or Simply Connect London where you can find activities to do in your area.
Joining groups is a great way to build confidence and make friends.
Examples include:
• Sports clubs (football, boxing, walking clubs).
• Community kitchens and gardening projects.
• Men’s or women’s support groups.
• Creative activities like music, art, or drama.
Benefits:
• Improves wellbeing and reduces isolation.
• Helps you learn new skills.
• Creates structure and routine.
Why it matters:
Group activities give you a sense of purpose, routine, and belonging. They’re a positive way to spend time, develop hobbies, and meet people who share your interests. They can also improve mental health and reduce loneliness, which is common if you’ve been through difficult times.
What is Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB)?
Behaviour that causes harm, alarm, or distress to others.
Examples include:
• Loud, persistent noise.
• Harassment or threats.
• Vandalism or graffiti.
• Fly tipping (dumping rubbish illegally).
Why it matters:
ASB reduces quality of life for everyone. It creates stress, damages communities, and can make people feel unsafe in their own homes. If you are involved in ASB, it can also lead to warnings, fines, or even losing your tenancy.
Fly tipping explained:
• Dumping rubbish in streets, alleys, or communal spaces instead of bins.
• It’s illegal, attracts pests, and makes the area unsafe.
What you can do:
• Report ASB to your landlord, housing officer, or council.
• Report fly tipping to the council (most have online forms or hotlines).
• Always put rubbish in the correct bins or recycling points.
What is cuckooing?
Cuckooing is when criminals take over someone’s home to use it for illegal activities (e.g. drug dealing, storing weapons). They may offer money, gifts, or drugs in exchange for using your flat.
Signs of cuckooing:
• Lots of strangers coming in and out at all hours.
• Neighbours noticing unusual behaviour.
• You feel pressured or scared by “friends” staying over.
Why it matters:
Cuckooing puts you at risk of crime, violence, and losing your home. It can also damage relationships with neighbours and put your safety in danger. If your property is linked to criminal activity, your landlord may take legal action, even if you didn’t want it to happen.
© St Mungo’s 2026