Nabostøtte

Nabostøtte refers to the practice of neighbor support in Norway, encompassing both informal acts of assistance among residents and organized programs that connect residents with volunteers or staff to help with daily life tasks and social inclusion. It can be provided by municipalities, nonprofit organizations, religious or community groups, or through informal networks within neighborhoods. The goal is to strengthen social cohesion, reduce loneliness, and support independent living, especially for older people, people with disabilities, or those experiencing temporary crises.

Implementation typically involves recruitment and training of volunteers, safeguarding policies, and coordinators who match needs with available help. Activities may include assistance with errands and shopping, transportation to appointments, home safety checks, light home maintenance, meal preparation, tech help, and social visits. Coordination may be through community centers, digital platforms, or neighborhood associations, and may operate alongside formal public services to ensure coordination and avoid duplication.

Funding often comes from municipal budgets, state or national grants, and charitable sources; some programs rely on community fundraising. Evaluation focuses on user satisfaction, changes in independence, reduced demand for formal services, and volunteer engagement, while ensuring privacy and consent. Challenges include sustaining long-term funding, maintaining volunteer quality and safety, managing expectations, and navigating eligibility and liability issues. Nabostøtte is commonly part of broader social care or community development strategies and varies by region in organization and terminology.