A recent poll of 2,000 Brits has revealed the top 40 things that make a great community, with helpful neighbours, regular litter pickers and a decent local pub topping the list. The research also highlighted the importance of well-maintained community gardens, reliable public transport and running or walking groups in creating a wholesome living environment.
Other key factors included low crime rates, small local businesses and having a convenience store nearby. According to the study, living in a nice community leads to 68% of people taking pride in their local area and doing what they can to make it a friendly and welcoming place.
The research was commissioned by SPAR UK, which is launching its third Community Cashback scheme, giving away a total of £100,000 in grants to local voluntary or community organisations and charities on behalf of its shoppers.
Suzanne Dover, from the community retailer, said: "There is nothing better than a community that comes together and it's great to see how people across the UK care about their local communities. We are passionate about nurturing neighbourhoods and empowering people to make a positive difference to where they live. The results show that it's the people above anything else that create a strong community."
The study also found that 32% of respondents believe well-maintained gardens contribute to making a community perfect. The same percentage of people are keen on having a recycling centre, and 28% love the idea of regular weekend market stalls for local produce.
In the survey, 45% of participants felt they were part of their community, and 59% would recommend it as a great place to live. Volunteering is also seen as crucial, with 19% lending a hand at organisations and charities in their area.
Among these volunteers, a quarter do so two or three times a week - most likely at charity shops (22%) or community development schemes like litter picking (22%). Almost half (46%) volunteer because they want to make a difference, and 43% enjoy helping their local people.
Local communities also show support by organising fundraising events such as cake sales and charity runs. And 40% agree that there are individuals in their neighbourhood who deserve special recognition for their help.
The study revealed that 49% know their neighbours quite well, with 65% taking in deliveries for them, and 41% bringing in bins on collection day. One in five even exchange birthday and Christmas gifts - and 16% will drop in to feed a pet during the holiday season.
The research, conducted via OnePoll.com, found that 37% of Brits would go as far as to say the community they live in is 'perfect'. However, of those who could see room for improvement, 31 % would like to see better maintenance of public spaces, and 30% are calling for more affordable housing options.
Suzanne Dover chimed in: "Our grant scheme is aimed at supporting and giving back to the communities where we have our shops. We've witnessed first-hand how much last year's grant winners benefitted from this scheme and know that together, we are making a real difference in communities."
TOP 40 THINGS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO A PERFECT COMMUNITY:.
Friendly neighbours.
Low crime rates.
Helpful neighbours.
People who look out for each other.
Healthcare services.
Parks and play areas.
Reliable public transport.
A sense of belonging.
Small local businesses.
Local pub.
A convenience store.
Welcoming shop owners.
Community library.
Lively high street or town centre.
Affordable housing for young people.
Bars and restaurants.
A community centre.
Dog-friendly walks.
A leisure centre.
Village Hall.
Maintained community gardens.
Recycling centres.
Seasonal activities such as Christmas choirs.
Local nurseries and childcare.
Regular litter pickers.
Good Ofsted schools.
Weekend market stalls.
Neighbourhood Watch.
Gardening plots and allotments.
Youth groups.
Health and wellness groups.
Sports teams and leagues.
Charity shops.
Local food banks and community kitchens.
Running and walking groups.
Scout and girl guide groups.
Fundraising events.
An animal rescue team.
Renewable energy initiatives.
A welcoming gym.