Say ‘yes’ to new friendships at special taster events
Friendship Month, now in its 15th year, is the Oddfellows’ nationwide campaign to highlight the values and benefits of friendship
Friendly society, Albert Oddfellows is inviting residents to a series of special taster events as part of its annual Friendship Month celebrations this month.
The nationwide not-for-profit group, based for mostly older adults. It is appealing for people to push past any uncertainty or self-doubt, and to say ‘yes’ to giving their friendly group a try.
Promising a warm welcome to any newcomers, Social Organiser for Wolverhampton Oddfellows, Linda Aitchison said: “Trying new activities inevitably puts us in situations where we might feel uncomfortable or a little out of place – but that’s all part of the experience. People who try us always leave saying they wish they hadn’t worried so much and they were pleased they came along.
“It’s easy to say ‘no’ to anything that challenges our regular habits. But these tasters have been specifically designed to put you at ease.
“Saying ‘yes’ to giving something new a try, especially a shared experience, has so many rewards, especially for wellbeing.
“Good company boosts your mood, builds your social confidence, and keeps your brain and body active,” Sam added. “Plus, what often gets overlooked is that when you create a new circle of friends, you’re also creating a supportive network for when you might need a helping hand.”
The Oddfellows also runs around 60 online social events through Zoom each month which are free and open to the general public, including online open days.
Gerry Noble-Gough, a retired bookkeeper from Hatfield, became a member of Albert Oddfellows during last year’s Friendship Month. She said: “I joined primarily to meet people of a similar age to me. I was feeling a bit isolated as all my family members and many of my friends still live in Surrey.
“I look forward to, and enjoy the Oddfellows’ events as they are very social and lively. There are all types of people with interesting life experiences and stories to tell and we usually have a good laugh. That’s important to me. It’s an extremely friendly group.
“I enjoy the brunches and other meals in the very nice historical and pretty town like Hitchin, and of course our lovely Sam is brilliant at arranging and hosting the events along with making our cups of tea and coffee at Oddfellows’ Nuns Close premises.”
Albert Oddfellows is one of 96 branches of the Oddfellows, which is one of the oldest and largest friendly societies in the UK.
The Society aims to improve its members’ lives through friendship and support. As well as its events, members can access a variety of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to take part in fundraising and volunteering initiatives.
Find your nearest Oddfellows: https://www.oddfellows.co.uk/branch-finder/