douglas street bank streetbank

Street Bank is a community-run initiative that supports neighbours in times of need while encouraging crime prevention and in better times, social events.

The Street Bank initiative was created at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to encourage streets to pool resources and support residents in need (whether in isolation or at risk), especially seniors or neighbours with medical conditions.

It’s times like these that being a ‘good neighbour’ can have a profound effect on those in your community. Starting a Street Bank in your street is a positive way to establish a connection with those who live closest to you, allowing everyone to coordinate support for those who need it most.

It takes just one street coordinator to make a Street Bank and good neighbourhood to make it a reality.

Please note, while Street Bank is an idea formulated to encourage cohesive neighbourhoods, it is not a Council-run initiative. A Council Community Development Officer can provide tools and resources to a Street Bank Coordinator to assist with the role to support their street.

How does it work?

STEP 1

Nominate yourself as a Street Bank Coordinator by registering below.

Complete this registration form

STEP 2

Download this Street Bank Flyer and print out enough flyers for the number of houses and apartments in your street.

STEP 3

Fill out the relevant details on the flyer that you are comfortable with sharing.

STEP 4

Drop the flyer in your neighbour’s letterboxes.

STEP 5

When your neighbours reply (via email, text and calls) you can send a ‘response message’ to them using the template below or create your own. These will help you save time and ensure you receive the right information from the outset.

Response message example

Hi Neighbour’s Name,

Thank you for registering your interest in our Street Bank. Together we can look after each other and provide support in times of need. To help me create a street database, can you please reply with the following information, only filling out what you’re comfortable sharing:

Street number:
Email:
Phone number:
Are you on Facebook?
If yes would you like to be part of a Facebook group?
Do you need assistance now?
Can you help others on the street?

If you become unwell, require isolation or need help please let me know. Together we can help to ensure you have the essentials and support.

Thank you
Street Bank Coordinator’s name
Street Bank Coordinator’s phone number

STEP 6

Create a spreadsheet or Street Bank list using this template as a guide.

STEP 7

Reach out to the database via text, email or via a ‘welcome message’ using one of the templates below or create your own.

At this time you may also you may like to create a Facebook group and add your neighbours, with their permission.

Please remember under privacy laws you’re not allowed to share another persons contact details without their consent. We’d recommending using the BCC function on emails.

Welcome message for letter or email

Thank you for joining (Insert your Street Name) Street Bank!

Street Bank has been created so that we can together support those in need with simple things that otherwise might be difficult for some people to obtain and to create some connectivity in our street.

If you are in isolation, unwell, or at risk due to age, disability, pre-existing medical condition or compromised immune system we may be able to collectively help you whilst still maintaining the safe distancing rules.

If you need groceries or medical supplies collected please do not hesitate to contact me or if you are well and able to assist with helping other neighbours I’d love to hear from you.

Thank you
Street Bank Coordinator’s name
Street Bank Coordinator’s phone number

Welcome message for Facebook group

Thank you for joining (Insert your Street Name) Street Bank!

Street Bank has been created so that we can together support those in need with simple things that otherwise might be difficult for some people to obtain and to create some connectivity in our street.

I have created a Facebook group called (Insert Facebook Group Name) if you would like to join.

If you are in isolation, unwell, or at risk due to age, disability, pre-existing medical condition or compromised immune system we may be able to collectively help you whilst still maintaining the safe distancing rules.

If you need groceries or medical supplies collected please do not hesitate to contact me or if you are well and able to assist with helping other neighbours I’d love to hear from you.

Thank you
Street Bank Coordinator’s name
Street Bank Coordinator’s phone number

STEP 8

Touch base with your Street Bank via a ‘contact message’ every couple of weeks or as you see fit. Feel free to use one of the templates below or create your own.

It’s important not to bombard people with messages, however you may like to check in more regularly with seniors or vulnerable residents at risk.

Contact message example

Hi Neighbour’s Name,

Just checking in with you to see how you are getting on. Do you need anything, and are you okay?

Thank you
Street Bank Coordinator’s name
Street Bank Coordinator’s phone number

Seeking assistance message

Hi Neighbour’s Name,

One of our neighbours is in self-isolation from today. They have ordered groceries for collection tomorrow.

Is there someone who can collect these please and drop it off at the front door? If you can assist, please reply.

Thank you
Street Bank Coordinator’s name
Street Bank Coordinator’s phone number

STEP 9

When coordinating Street Bank, using resources / assisting, please ensure:
you do not put yourself or others at risk;

  • Volunteers and coordinators should understand the safety guidelines and laws
  • Volunteers and coordinators should not enter homes, touch door handles or other surfaces
  • Social distancing rules between people are maintained
  • Hands are washed regularly with soap
  • Deliveries are left at the door
  • Physical contact with people is avoided
  • Contact details are not shared without permission (Privacy Act 1988)

STEP 10

When social gatherings are permitted, you are encouraged to coordinate a street social event or BBQ in your area utilising the Street Bank data. You could even create a neighbourhood watch group if people are interested.

Positive outcomes will come out of these challenging times and Council encourages and supports community initiatives like Street Bank.

Where can I get advice, obtain resources or get help?

If you have any questions, please contact Renee Ker at Douglas Shire Council on 4099 9444.

REMEMBER

  • Coordinators and neighbours are responsible for their own safety.
  • This community- based program is promoting community support and connection.
  • Being positive, supportive and safe is important, as well as adhering to the Privacy Act 1998.
  • Street Bank coordinators must remove neighbours from the data base if requested.
  • Contact details cannot be shared with other neighbours without permission.
  • Please ask permission before adding anyone to a Facebook group or sharing details.