Sowing seeds of friendship this spring

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

Throughout the country, our friendship groups are doing all they can to help bring people seeking company together this spring.

Friendship and support nationwide

Nene and Welland Oddfellows, which is made up of 475 members who meet regularly to enjoy events and activities in and around the South Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire area, is one of those branches extending a welcome to anyone interested in getting to know new people locally.

Nene and Welland Oddfellows members at a recent event

Removing barriers to friendship

“There are lots of obstacles that can get in the way of making friends, particularly as we get older,” said Karen Earth, Branch Secretary at Nene and Welland Oddfellows.

“Not knowing how to start or where to look is often the first and most difficult hurdle, especially when recently retired or you’ve just moved to a new area, so we want people to know that we’re here and will help to remove as many barriers as possible.

“We have a variety of events to try and a whole host of people to enjoy doing them alongside. There really is something for everyone.

“If you’re nervous about trying out a new group, many of our regulars felt that way in the beginning. We’ll do all we can to put you at ease. You can always call ahead to get an idea of what to expect.”

Events for all

Nene and Welland Oddfellows has a packed and varied schedule of events that typically includes coffee mornings, crafts and games, interesting talks, walks and trips out to local landmarks, cafes and restaurants.

The group is also very aware that costs can prohibitive to socialising.

Karen added: “We keep the prices of our events to a minimum in order to make them as accessible and affordable as possible.”

The group likes to try out different cafes and restaurants in the area

There many reasons why people might not be able to make it to an Oddfellows event in person, which is why the Society hosts around 60 online events every month which are free and open to all.

To find out more about Nene and Welland Oddfellows email Karen on karen.earth@oddfellows.co.uk or call 01778 342 006.

Oddfellows friendship groups

As well as social events, Oddfellows members can access a wide range of benefits, including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to volunteer and play a part in raising money for good causes.

If you’re not based in South Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire, we have a network of 99 branches nationwide. You can visit our Branch Finder to discover your nearest branch, or to see what events are happening close to you, use our Events Finder.

We have lots of advice around creating friendships in later life on our friendship page, including a ‘Friendship MOT’ designed in collaboration with Chartered Psychologist and later life career coach, Dr Denise Taylor.

If you'd like us to send you a free membership information pack and a local events diary for your area, contact us.