Take our historical tour
History
The Oddfellows. So where did it all begin? Enjoy a snapshot view of our Society and the Oddfellows' history.
Helping people live happy lives
True friendships are priceless. They provide us with memories that we cherish for a lifetime, they help us to grow and become better people, and help us make a better society, built on better values.
We know that the true worth of friendships aren’t realised in how they fare when the sailing is smooth. It’s in how they help us weather through life’s storms too.
That’s what we do. For over 200 years the Oddfellows has helped its members forge friendships and offered help in times of need. Today we have over 314,000 members, based across our 126 UK Branches*.
We’ve no political or religious affiliations – we’re here for everyone – from all walks of life and ages. Our members have access to a compelling range of social, care and financial benefits. So whether they’re going through one of life’s ups, or downs, we can be there for them and each other.
We’re also very proud to be a non-profit mutual that believes in a community bonded by friendship, care and charitable support. We know that by bringing people together, we can achieve so much more than we could alone.
If you feel the same, join us. Be part of a friendlier society.
*Figures correct as of 01/01/17.
We're a committed member of Age Action Alliance (ageactionalliance.org), contributing where we can to create communities where older people feel secure, valued and able to contribute to society.
Giving back
Our members are bonded by a shared desire to help others. Funding life-changing medical research, supporting the RNLI and raising money for many local good causes are just some of the ways in which we try to make a real difference in our local communities. Read more
We are very grateful to the Oddfellows for funding our project, which will help people with Parkinson’s to live more active and independent lives.
PAUL JACKSON-CLARK
Director of Fundraising, Parkinson’s UK
How we're governed
Governance
Find out what being a mutual means to us, and how our Society and business is governed. You can also access documents, such as our latest Reports & Financial Statements and details on how we manage our with-profit funds. Find out more
Modern-day traditions
Traditions
Our heritage is unique, with founding traditions and values that we feel are worth preserving. Many of our members cherish the opportunity to be involved in the traditional ceremonies of the Order and to progress through our fraternal Lectures. It’s a personal choice and not something you have to do to as a member. Find out more
Financial Services
Unity Mutual
We've recently launched our new financial services brand, ‘Unity Mutual’ - providing simple savings, investments and protection products to help you and your family save for tomorrow. Unity Mutual offers a range of products, such as Guaranteed Investment Bonds, Tax-exempt Savings Plans, Sickness Income Plans, as well as Junior and Flexible ISAs. Find out more.
Friendship Month
Campaign
Every September, our Society celebrates Friendship Month. It's our time to remind the nation of just how important friendship is to our health and happiness. Our Branches hold hundreds of fun and easy-going events all across the country to help bring people together. Come join the fun and let’s celebrate friendship together.
Oddfellows gifts and merchandise
Why don't you take a look at the latest Oddfellows gifts and merchandise available through the Society's OddShop?
From badges and books to calendars and cufflinks – we're sure there's something that'll take your fancy.
Take me shopping