Take our historical tour
History
The Oddfellows. So where did it all begin? Enjoy a snapshot view of our Society and the Oddfellows' history.
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 a national network of 121 Branches and 309,000 UK members, of which 43,500 receive the support of our 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’ve no political or religious affiliations – we’re here for everyone – from all walks of life and ages.
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 01/01/20.
We're a committed member of Age Action Alliance, contributing where we can to create communities where older people feel secure, valued and able to contribute to society.
We fully support Campaign to End Loneliness in its belief that nobody who wants company should be without it. #EndLoneliness
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, details on how we manage our with-profit funds and read our Directors' biographies.
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
Our financial services brand, Unity Mutual, provides simple savings, investments and protection products to help you and your family save for tomorrow, such as Guaranteed Investment Bonds, Tax-exempt Savings Plans, Sickness Income Plans, as well as Lifetime, Junior and Flexible ISAs.
Friendship Month
Campaign
We’re here to offer friendship and support year-round, but every September our Branches and members wave an extra big hello to anyone looking to meet other caring and friendly people in their area. Hundreds of events took place across the UK in 2019.
Making a Difference Awards
Member recognition
Our Making a Difference Awards are designed to reward the extraordinary and give recognition to members who mean the world to us.
Our Big Fact Factsheet
Information
Take a look at our Big Fact Factsheet to find out more about our Society, and how we carry out our mission of making friends and helping people.
Everyone's welcome
Because friendships don’t start in empty rooms – the more people there are, the more magic happens. Watch our video and find out how Oddfellows membership is bringing a spark to people’s lives.
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