Find a ‘home away from home’ with Mid Staffs Oddfellows
Feeling at home isn’t just about where you live – it’s about feeling comfortable, welcome and connected. That’s the latest message from Mid Staffs Oddfellows, a local social group inviting people in the area to try one of its meetups and discover a ready-made community of friends on their doorstep.
Part of the national Oddfellows friendly society, Mid Staffs Oddfellows runs a regular programme of activities within Staffordshire (Stafford, Stoke, Newcastle, Penkridge) designed to bring people together and encourage new interests.
Events range from relaxed coffee mornings and lunches to walks, games afternoons and day trips, with no pressure to attend every time.
Tina Bayley, Branch Secretary of Mid Staffs Oddfellows, says the group, made up of around 385 members, provides something many people don’t realise they’re missing.
“Home is a feeling, and for many of our members, Mid Staffs Oddfellows has become a real home away from home,” said Tina “It’s about knowing there’s a friendly face waiting for you, a place where you can be yourself and feel comfortable from the moment you walk through the door.”
She added that organised friendship groups play an important role as people move through different life stages.
“Having a reliable group to belong to brings reassurance, routine and connection. It’s not just about socialising – it’s about feeling supported and part of something local.”
Mid Staffs Oddfellows member Nadia Davies, in her 70s from Stafford who joined the group 18 months ago, says it has made a real difference to her life.
“I didn’t know what to expect at first, but I’m so glad I gave it a try,” she said. “I’ve met so many lovely people and now I regularly attend the events. I always really look forward to going – it’s something that suits me, and it genuinely feels like a place where I belong.”
Newcomers are invited to try an event to see if the group is right for them. All activities are hosted, with upcoming events including a Cuppa & Chat starting at 10.30am on Thursday, February 26, at Six Arches Restaurant at Trentham Garden Centre. There is also a British Pie Week lunch starting at 1pm on Wednesday, March 4, at The Oddfellows Hall, Greengate Street, Stafford (booking required). These relaxed events are ideal for anyone attending for the first time.
Tina added: “There’s no pressure with our group at all. You can take part as much or as little as you like – just turn up as you are. Many people tell us they wish they’d discovered us sooner.”
As well as attending its events, Mid Staffs Oddfellows members can access a variety of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to volunteer and take part in fundraising initiatives.
The Oddfellows also hosts around 60 free online events every month that are accessible to everyone, including a monthly virtual open day where people can learn more about its friendship groups.
To find out more about Mid Staffs Oddfellows, upcoming activities and to receive a free local information pack and events diary, get in touch by calling Tina Bayley on 01785 258269 emailing midstaffs@oddfellows.co.uk, or visiting oddfellows.co.uk/activities
