A poll of 2,000 adults explored who they see as humble heroes within their local areas – with teens who help pensioners solve their tech troubles scoring highly
The unsung heroes at the core of UK communities have been named – and they include the postmen and women braving all weather conditions, the bus drivers assisting you with heavy shopping bags, and the school crossing guards. A survey of 2,000 adults discovered who residents see as modest champions in their local areas.
Tech-savvy teenagers helping out pensioners also ranked highly. Meanwhile, three in ten view allotment owners who give out free vegetables crucial community members. The top three attributes of being a valued community member included checking in on elderly neighbours, being a familiar face who always says hello, or being a person people can rely on.
Sam Greer, chief operating officer at Stagecoach, which commissioned the research to spotlight and showcase the humble heroes at the heart of the UK’s local communities, said: “Many of the pillars of our communities, our everyday local humble heroes, are the ones we’ve known for generations. Friendly posties, bus drivers and school crossing guards have been key to many happy communities for decades.
“They’re the ones who make the small acts of kindness that have a big impact in the community. And that’s exactly what drives us at Stagecoach the determination to go the extra mile and give back to the community by saying, ‘we’ve got you’.
“These humble heroes don’t seek the spotlight, but without them, life in towns and cities across the UK would be far less connected, less caring, and less human.”
The research also found that seven in ten respondents believe independent business owners are crucial to a happy community. This includes amateur bakers who bring cakes to the community centre ‘just because’, and corner shop owners who let you off 20p when you’re short on change.
Participation in local fundraisers was seen as a way to boost one’s community profile, while running or coaching local sports teams could help establish someone within their community.
Bus drivers were celebrated as unsung heroes, with two thirds agreeing they can make a significant difference as a friendly face in the neighbourhood. Nearly three quarters view buses as an essential part of their local area.
Reasons for this include their ability to connect vulnerable groups and reduce isolation by providing independence, mobility, and enabling people to stay connected with family and friends.
Bus drivers are also perceived as fountains of local knowledge, able to provide directions and community news and as the backbone of local events through their facilitation of special routes or shuttle services.
According to 23% of respondents, the definition of a ‘community hero’ has evolved over the last decade. Almost half suggested that many now go unnoticed without a digital presence. Over a third expressed the view that online popularity is sometimes mistaken for genuine community contribution.
Furthermore, some think the term ‘hero’ has lost its true meaning, with 30% fearing it’s become ‘overused’.
Sam added: “Reliable, accessible transport is the lifeline that keeps these pillars in contact with the people who need them most. Whether it’s a bus service linking residents to the high street, or safe cycle routes making it easier for families to visit the local park, transport enables connection and collaboration.
“Without it, the vibrancy of our communities can fade, as people find it harder to reach the places and people that matter most to them.”
Top 20 pillars of a modern community:
- The postie who never skips a house—even in snow, storms or during the school run
- The school crossing guard who remembers every kid’s name—and their dog’s
- The teen who volunteers to help pensioners with their tech
- The neighbour who always brings your bin in without fuss or fanfare
- The delivery driver who always leaves your parcel in a safe place
- The allotment grower who leaves free veg out with a ‘help yourself’ sign
- The bus driver who helps you carry your shopping onto the bus
- The corner shop owner who lets you off 20p when you’re short
- The amateur baker who brings cakes to the community centre ‘just because’
- The shop assistant who tells you, quietly, that something will be half price tomorrow
- The person who starts local WhatsApp groups and keeps everyone in the loop
- The guy who always has jump leads and never minds being asked
- The dog walker who always has spare poo bags for forgetful pet parents
- The barber who knows your life story and never tells a soul
- The person at the gym who gives you a cheer when you’re clearly struggling
- The librarian who never fines you for late returns
- The parent who always remembers extra sun cream
- The street artist who turns drab underpasses into colour and character
- The barista who never charges you for an extra shot
- The local DJ who plays every wedding, christening, and street party for the love of it
