The loneliness epidemic in the UK continues to persist, with recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Loneliness Awareness UK revealing that 45% of adults feel lonely all or most of the time. This equates to over 25 million people. This alarming statistic underscores the pressing need for initiatives that foster stronger, more connected communities.
In response to this growing challenge, we are proud to introduce the 2025 Community Engagement Guide, designed to empower residential developments with actionable strategies to promote resident well-being and create thriving, connected neighbourhoods.
Why Loneliness Matters in Residential Communities
For many residents, their home environment is their primary space for social interactions. This is particularly true for individuals who work from home, retirees, or those living alone. However, when community engagement is overlooked, even the most luxurious developments can feel isolating.
The impact of combating loneliness is measurable. Last year across our client developments, we saw outstanding results that showcase the transformative power of Spike Living:
3,000+ new clubs and forums were created, fostering stronger social connections.
Residents actively participated in their communities with 280,000+ comments, and social engagements.
7,500+ events were held, attracting 45,500+ attendees.
Additionally, many of our clients such as Moda, Greystar, VervLife and more who embraced the platform, emerged as top performers on HomeViews’ 2024 rankings of leading developments for resident satisfaction. This recognition underscores the success of Spike’s tools and strategies in enhancing resident experiences, strengthening community ties, and boosting property reputation.
By prioritising initiatives that foster social connections, residential developments can become more than just a place to live – they can become vibrant, inclusive communities that enhance the lives of their residents.
Practical Solutions for Building Connections
Creating a sense of belonging doesn’t happen by chance – it requires thoughtful planning and consistent effort. The 2025 Community Engagement Guide provides practical, innovative ideas to help property managers and operators tackle loneliness head-on.
Here are just a few strategies highlighted in the guide:
- Hosting regular community events: From coffee mornings to fitness classes, creating opportunities for residents to interact is key to building connections.
- Leveraging shared spaces: How to utilise communal areas such as lounges, gardens, and co-working spaces to encourage organic social interactions.
- Using digital platforms to foster engagement: Resident engagement portals, like Spike Living, make it easy to share event information and announcements, start interest groups, and communicate with neighbours – all from one convenient platform.
The Role of Technology in Combating Loneliness
While technology can sometimes be seen as isolating, when used effectively, it can be a powerful tool for connection. Platforms like Spike Living provide residents with a central hub to stay informed, get involved, and feel part of their community. By enabling features such as group messaging, event sign-ups, and feedback forms, Spike Living helps bridge the gap between residents and their communities.
But technology alone isn’t the solution. It works best as part of a broader strategy that includes in-person initiatives and the creation of welcoming physical spaces.
That’s why the 2025 Community Engagement Guide is packed with tips to integrate digital solutions with on-the-ground efforts, ensuring your residents benefit from a holistic approach to community building
Get Your Free Copy of the Guide!
The 2025 Community Engagement Guide is your roadmap to tackling loneliness and building stronger, more connected residential communities. Whether you’re looking for fresh ideas for events, advice on optimising communal spaces, or insights into the role of technology, this guide has you covered.
By implementing these strategies, you can not only enhance resident satisfaction but also improve retention rates and strengthen your development’s reputation as a place where people truly feel at home.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At Spike, we believe that community engagement is at the heart of creating places where people love to live. By prioritising connection, we can collectively address the loneliness pandemic and improve the quality of life for residents across the UK. Whether you’re managing a Build to Rent, Build to Sell, or CoLiving development, the strategies in this guide are tailored to meet your needs and help you foster lasting connections within your communities.
Let’s work together to turn residential spaces into vibrant, connected neighbourhoods – because no one should feel alone at home.
Download the guide today and start transforming your developments into thriving, inclusive communities.
