The win-win of socialising
Updated: 28 Jan 2025
By embracing a more vibrant social life, Mick Coleman made more than just new friendships through the Oddfellows – he also became more confident.
Mick (pictured front centre) has made many friends through going to Oddfellows events
Interesting people, interesting events
Despite having a career where he met many people, 73-year-old Mick, a retired gas service engineer from Sidcup, admits he wasn’t always confident socially. However, after a number of his clients suggested heading along to a local Oddfellows event with them, he thought he’d give one a try.
“That was 20-odd years ago,” reflected Mick. “I went along to see what it was all about and on the strength of that I joined.”
Now a member of South London Oddfellows' Flower of Kent Branch, he said the wide variety of social events and activities appealed to him, as well as a like-minded, friendly group of locals to enjoy them with.
Whether it be a walk, an interesting talk, a trip out or a coffee morning, everything was organised for him – all he had to do was turn up and enjoy himself.
Mick said: “The amount of people you meet as an Oddfellow is amazing. It’s given me great confidence. It’s brought me out of my shell. And it’s done that for other people I’ve spoken to.”
Mick volunteers his time to organise and host events, like music bingo
Revived interests
Not only did attending Oddfellows events help build Mick’s confidence, it also allowed him to share interests that had been lying dormant in his life.
He said: “I was a mobile DJ in my day – Motown, Soul, Rock ‘n’ Roll – and it got me back into it. I said ‘I can do some music for you’. So I started doing some dances and some fundraisers, stuff like that.
“Going to Oddfellows events gave me an opportunity to sell myself and share what I’m good at. I’m quite good at music. I seem to know how to read an audience and make people dance.”
Mick rekindled his love for music and DJing by playing at Oddfellows events
Mick has become more involved with his local group, volunteering his time to help organise and host events so more people can experience similar benefits.
“If anyone is trying us for the first time, we’ll go out and meet them, put them under our wing and be there for them the whole evening,” Mick said.
He added: “If you’re lonely, you’ve just been widowed, or whatever has happened to you in your life, there’s a whole bunch of people that will surround you with love and help you out. You’ll never be alone.
“Head down to your local Oddfellows and get involved. A warm welcome’s waiting.”
Find out about social events near to you
The Oddfellows is a non-profit and mutual. Our members have opportunities to stay social and supported, as well as chances to volunteer and contribute to fundraising initiatives. We also have a travel club.
Each month, our UK-wide network of branches host around 700 events across the UK, in-person and online, from walks, talks and coffee mornings, to lunches, excursions and quizzes. Members can also access care and welfare advice and support.
To learn more about the Oddfellows, you can request a free information pack which includes a diary of local events and activities.
You don't need to become a member first before giving an event a try.
You might also be interested in reading our article on what to expect at an Oddfellows social event?