Say 'yes' to new friendships at special taster events

The local not-for-profit group, made up of around 180 members, mostly older adults, is appealing for people to push past any uncertainty or self-doubt, and to say ‘yes’ to giving their friendly group a try.They are kicking off their festivities with a coffee morning and lunch on Thursday 4th September in Wigan, followed by a Macmillan coffee morning and buffet lunch in Blackburn and a Bowling Tournament in Bury later in the month.

Promising a warm welcome to any newcomer Social Organiser for South East Lancashire Oddfellows, Natalie Kearns, 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. 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.”

South East Lancashire Oddfellows has been celebrating Friendship Month since 2010, aiming to bring local people together through special taster events and to encourage the formation of new, supportive friendships.

On September 18th at 12pm, the group is inviting local residents to try its Macmillan coffee morning at Oddfellows House, Bury. The Oddfellows also runs around 60 online social events through Zoom each month which are free and open to the general public.

Vera Kirkby, from Bury, has been a member of Oddfellows for

She said: “You have your routine, and that’s fine, but it’s important to break out of it from time to time – to try a new cafe, walk or to have a lovely conversation with someone outside of your family or regular friendships.

“You find out so many interesting things, and have stories to share afterwards. It lifts your spirits. You should never stop learning, or challenging yourself.

“If you’re nervous, don’t be. We’ve all been there and understand how nerve-wracking it can feel. Give the event host a call beforehand and then that’s one new friend you’ve made already!”

South East Lancashire 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.

To register an interest in attending one of South East Lancashire Oddfellows’ Friendship Month taster events, or to find out more about the group and its activities, email [email protected], call Natalie on 0754641909, or request a local info pack at www.friendshipmonth.com.

Notes to Editor:

• Launched in 2010, Friendship Month (www.friendshipmonth.com) is the Oddfellows’ national awareness month to promote the benefits of friendship.
• Established in 1810, the Oddfellows is one of the largest and oldest friendly societies in the UK, with around 39,000 members across 96 branches nationwide. We're a not-for-profit mutual run by our members for our members, and we do our best to improve the quality of people’s lives through friendship, care and charity. It costs from £25 a year to join us as a member and become part of our friendly society. www.oddfellows.co.uk.

For further information about the Oddfellows, please contact Lewis Finney ([email protected]) or Naomi Fulwood ( [email protected])