Active Citizenship

There are a set of shared values and responsibilities that everyone living in the UK is encouraged to accept, including:

• Obeying and respecting the law
• Being aware of the rights of others and respecting these rights
• Treating others with fairness
• Behaving responsibly
• Supporting and protecting your family
• Respecting and preserving the environment
• Treating everyone equally, regardless of sex, race, religion, age, disability, social class, or sexual orientation
• Working to provide for yourself and your family
• Helping others in the community
• Participating in local and national government elections by voting

Being a Good Neighbour

Saying hello to the people who live near you is an easy way to settle into a new area and to start lasting friendships. There are many situations where neighbours can be useful to each other, from looking after pets while you are away to sharing advice about local shops and services.

Respect your neighbours’ privacy and keep noise levels down, and a friendly relationship is usually easy to maintain. Keep your garden clean and tidy, and only put refuse bags and bins out on the street or in communal areas when they are due for collection.

Getting Involved in Community Activities

Volunteering and helping one another are highly valued in the UK. Giving time to community work is a direct route to meeting new people, settling into the area, and playing a part in making it a better place.