Most of us want to have good relationships with our neighbours but differences of opinion and conflicts can get in the way, causing stress, tension and arguments.

Here are a few tips to help you build positive relationships with your neighbours:

• Get to know your neighbours: introduce yourself, say hello, wave, chat over the fence
• Develop a relationship: invite them for visit, offer to watch their house or pets if they’re away, get to know them
• Kind gestures go a long way: bake cookies, water their flowers, shovel the walk

If you have a concern with a neighbour, consider the following before you bring it up with them:

• What exactly do you want to talk about?
• How can you do this respectfully?
• Consider how you would like to be treated if the situation were reversed

When sharing a concern with your neighbour talk about what is important to you, and why. Ask your neighbour for their thoughts on the situation.

Working together to resolve the concern helps to develop positive neighbour relationships and makes stronger communities.

Resolving conflicts

Strathcona County Community Mediation (SCCM) 

• If you need more support in having a difficult conversation or resolving a conflict reach out to Strathcona County Community Mediation (SCCM). SCCM provides County residents with free mediation and educational services. SCCM is committed to assisting and educating County residents to resolve conflict respectfully.
  • Email: communitymediation@sccm.ca 
  • Phone: 587-598-8445
  • Website: Community Mediation Society (sccm.ca)

More information: