5.10 Your Role in the Community

Becoming a British citizen or settling in the UK brings responsibilities but also opportunities. Everyone has the opportunity to participate in their community. This section looks at some of the responsibilities of being a citizen and gives information about how you can help to make your community a better place to live and work.

5.10.1 Values and responsibilities

Although Britain is one of the world’s most diverse societies, there is a set of shared values and responsibilities that everyone can agree with. These values and responsibilities include:

• to obey and respect the law
• to be aware of the rights of others and respect those rights
• to treat others with fairness
• to behave responsibly
• to help and protect your family
• to respect and preserve the environment
• to treat everyone equally, regardless of sex, race, religion, age, disability, class or sexual orientation
• to work to provide for yourself and your family
• to help others
• to vote in local and national government elections.

Taking on these values and responsibilities will make it easier for you to become a full and active citizen

5.10.2 Being a good neighbour

When you move into a new house or apartment, introduce yourself to the people who live near you. Getting to know your neighbours can help you to become part of the community and make friends. Your neighbours are also a good source of help – for example, they may be willing to feed your pets if you are away, or offer advice on local shops and services.

You can help prevent any problems and conflicts with your neighbours by respecting their privacy and limiting how much noise you make. Also try to keep your garden tidy, and only put your refuse bags and bins on the street or in communal areas if they are due to be collected.

5.10.3 Getting involved in local activities

Volunteering and helping your community are an important part of being a good citizen. They enable you to integrate and get to know other people. It helps to make your community a better place if residents support each other. It also helps you to fulfil your duties as a citizen, such as behaving responsibly and helping others.

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