True friends are with you through thick and thin. And Huddersfield resident, Audrey Robinson-Maynard, couldn’t agree more.
“I had a very active life raising a large family, working and volunteering,” says Audrey. “But when my children grew up and I retired, I suddenly found myself with lots of free time, and I felt a little lost. That’s where the Oddfellows came in. I went along to my local group and it introduced me to a brilliant group of friends I could try new things with.”
Audrey has been a member of the Oddfellows now for more than 18 years, and found that the Society was able to help her both financially and emotionally when she fell ill three years ago.
Audrey’s immune system had started to malfunction, and it was during this time that she realised the difference that having a good circle of supportive friends around you makes when you’re going through a difficult time.
“Thanks to the Oddfellows, I was able to take paid convalescence breaks which have been vital in helping me to relax and cope with my illness. A number of new friends I had made through the Society also kept in touch with me while I was unwell, which really helped during my recuperation.
“Being a member of such a supportive friendship group that helps you through thick and thin – was one of the best decisions I have made. You need support such as this, at any age, as you never know what’s round the corner.”
For more than two centuries, the Oddfellows has offered friendship and support and is one of the UK’s largest friendly societies, with 310,000 members across its 124 Branches. It’s a non-profit mutual (membership from £25 per year) run by members, for members, to improve the quality of people’s lives.
Members are invited to regular social events at their local Branch, such as coffee mornings, craft sessions, lunches out, guest talks and excursions. There are group holidays run by its travel club in addition to benefits which include care and welfare advice and support, special member discounts and historical archive access.
Audrey adds: “The Oddfellows is very welcoming and you can join at any age, so it’s great for the whole family. I would urge anybody looking for social events and companionship to get in touch. They’re a well-established friendly society – with a strong emphasis on friendly!”
A PERFECT TIME TO JOIN... Membership costs from just £25 a year, plus, join during September and get a £5 Love2shop voucher.*
Throughout September, the Oddfellows will be celebrating Friendship Month. Its branches will be hosting hundreds of special social events with an open invitation to give their local group a try.
Be in with a chance of winning a £250 RED LETTER DAY VOUCHER by entering through Lady.co.uk here!
