This October, when the clocks go back, we don’t just gain an extra hour in bed. We gain something far more valuable: time.
Here at Neighbourly, we’re so excited to be launching The Extra Hour, a new national campaign that encourages people all over the UK to use that extra time for good. Whether it’s checking in on a neighbour, helping out at a food bank, or simply making a call to someone who might be feeling lonely, we’re inviting individuals, families and businesses alike to pledge their extra hour to kindness.
Fresh research tells us that 84% of people think society should do more to promote neighbourliness, yet over a third (35%) believe we have become less neighbourly in the last 20 years; showing just how much appetite there is for positive change.
In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, we believe this campaign is about more than just one hour. It is about reminding ourselves that small, thoughtful actions can have a lasting impact. As Neighbourly CEO, Steve Butterworth, says:
“The extra hour we gain when the clocks go back is a perfect prompt. It’s a reminder that time is a gift and giving it to others can strengthen the bonds that hold communities together.”
Joining in is simple and starts with a 30 second pledge:
On the campaign page, you’ll also find inspiration from others across the country and a list of easy ideas for your extra hour - many of which are free, local and can be done in under an hour.
We believe that when thousands of people pledge their extra hour and thousands of small acts of kindness ripple across the country, the impact will be truly powerful.
We’re thrilled to already have support from hundreds of charity partners across the UK who are helping to spread the message.
Maya Amangeldiyeva, CEO of Maya's Community Support Centre, who has pledged an extra hour with the organisation, said:
“This is a brilliant campaign which shows the huge value small actions can have. To take part, you don’t have to do anything dramatic; it could be texting someone who’s had a hard time or just offering to help carry the shopping. But that one small gesture can make someone’s day. I’ve seen it happen time and again.”
We’ve even had Emmerdale star and Strictly Come Dancing winner Kelvin Fletcher share his own Extra Hour pledge on Instagram 🙌
So, how will you spend your Extra Hour?
👉 Make your pledge today: hub.neighbourly.com/the-extra-hour
And don’t forget to share your story using #TheExtraHour on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
Want to be an Extra Hour ambassador? Download the relevant toolkit to support your organisation's participation.
Together, let’s turn one small moment into a national movement of kindness.