Black Country friendship group urges retirees to give new friendships time to grow
The Oddfellows group is encouraging people to attend several social events before deciding whether a new group is right for them
A Black Country friendship group is encouraging retirees to give new social connections time to develop, saying it can take several months to build a sense of belonging.
The Black Country Oddfellows says retirement can bring major changes to people's daily routines and social circles, with some losing the sense of purpose and community that work once provided.
Karen Phillips, social organiser for the Wolverhampton Oddfellows Group, said regular meet-ups could help people find new friendships and interests.
She said: “We often think of retirement as gaining more freedom and time, but for some people it can also mean losing a sense of who they are and where they fit in.
“For decades, work can provide routine, purpose and a community of people around us. When that's no longer there, it's natural to feel adrift.”
The group has been working with evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin to explore the science behind human connections.
She advises people to attend the same group regularly over several months to allow trust and familiarity to develop, rather than giving up after one or two visits.
Dr Machin said: “Belonging isn't something we find just once in life. As our circumstances change, our places of belonging can change too. Retirement offers the chance to discover new communities, new friendships and new aspects of yourself.”
The Oddfellows, a not-for-profit friendly society, has branches across the UK offering social events, talks, walks and outings, as well as volunteering opportunities and wellbeing support.
Black Country Oddfellows is inviting people to try one of its November meet-ups:
- Wednesbury Cuppa and Chat: Morrisons Café, Tuesday, November 10 at 11am.
- Aldridge Games, Cuppa and Chat: The White House Pub, Wednesday, November 11 at 11.45am.
- Dudley Quiz, Cuppa and Chat: Toby Carvery, Tuesday, November 24 at 11am.
- Walsall Cuppa and Chat: Starbucks Café, Sainsbury's, Wednesday, November 25 at 11am.
- Wolverhampton Quiz, Cuppa and Chat: The Oddfellows Pub, Thursday, November 26 at 11.15am.
Dr Machin will also host a free webinar about finding a sense of belonging in retirement on Tuesday, December 8 at 7pm. People can register through the Oddfellows website.
For details of local activities and a free information pack and events diary, email [email protected] or visit oddfellows.co.uk/contact.