Stay social to stay well this winter

Updated: 28 Jan 2025

Oddfellows branches across the country are urging people to keep meeting up with friends throughout winter, despite the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.

Important to stay social

One such Branch, Deeside Oddfellows, has 500 mostly older and retired members based in and around Llandudno and North Wales, and recognises the importance of staying social and the positive impact it has on physical and mental wellbeing.

A recent walk along the Wirral Way with lunch at Hadlow Road Station, Willaston

Don't cut back on friendship

Friendship is important during difficult times, says Branch Secretary Denise Turner, and especially important during the winter months when we tend to retreat into our homes and mix less.

She said: “Last winter was hard on people’s pockets and wellbeing. Struggles around the increased cost of living meant many had to make significant cutbacks.

“At the Oddfellows, we believe friendship is an essential, particularly when times are tough and during winter when we can feel more isolated. Company provides comfort and support, and has to be prioritised.

“A good chat can bring light relief and help ease worries, and being able to share a problem might offer a new perspective.”

Accessible and affordable

The friendship group also wants to remind people that socialising doesn’t need to be expensive.

Denise added: "When you’re stretched financially, you’ve no choice but to look at how you can spend less. But it’s not where you get together that matters, just that you’re getting together – whether that’s meeting up in the park with a flask, at each other’s homes or in the local library.

“With our group meet-ups, we make sure that there are as few barriers to friendship as possible and we make them as affordable and accessible as we can.”

Deeside members enjoying a recent trip to Barton Grange Garden Centre

I’ve got a great group of friends here at the Oddfellows

Janice Cooper aged 66, has been a member of Deeside Oddfellows for over 10 years.

She said: “I’ve got a great group of friends here at the Oddfellows. People who I can have a laugh with, but also who I know I can turn to if needs be. And it’s great knowing that I’ve always got something in my diary to look forward to that doesn’t cost the earth.”

More on the Oddfellows

In addition to our branches' many in-person events, the Society also lists around 50 online events on its website each month that are free and open to the public to attend. Over the festive period we have plenty on offer so that people can stay connected. Find out more.

And you can find all our upcoming events on our Events Finder.

The Oddfellows is one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies. Our members also have access to a wide range of benefits including care and welfare support and Oddfellows Travel. To find out more about the full range of member benefits, go to our benefits page.

To receive a membership information pack and a free local events diary from your nearest Oddfellows Branch, contact us.