LOCAL friendship group, St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows, is urging people to keep meeting up with friends as we head into winter, despite the ongoing cost-of-living challenges.
The group, which has over 300 mostly older and retired members based in and around St Helens and Warrington recognises the importance of staying social and the positive impact it has on physical and mental wellbeing.
Friendship is important during difficult times, says Branch Secretary Pam Casey, 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.”
The local friendship group also wants to remind people that socialising doesn’t need to be expensive.
Pam 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.”
Upcoming events being run by the group, which are open to all to try are the popular monthly coffee mornings at Rhode Island Coffee House, Market Place, Golden Square, Warrington. Upcoming dates are Tuesday 31st October and Tuesday 21st November, the group meet upstairs in the Latte Lounge 10.30am until 12 noon, cost as per menu.
Eighty year old Ann has been a member at the branch for 10 years said: “I’ve got a great bunch 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.”
The Society also lists around 50 free online events on its website each month that are open to the public to attend.
The Oddfellows is one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies. Its members also have access to a wide range of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club.
For further details about St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows and to request an events diary, contact Pam on 07482130531 or [email protected]
