Islanders are being encouraged to strengthen existing friendships and make new connections before the darker winter months arrive, with a series of social events being held across the Isle of Wight.
Vecta Isle of Wight Oddfellows is calling on residents to ‘Circle September for friendship’ as part of Friendship Month, which runs throughout September.
The organisation says opportunities to socialise can dwindle as routines change and evenings become shorter, potentially leaving people with fewer opportunities to meet others.
Its campaign is backed by research which found 62% of UK adults surveyed admitted losing touch with a good friend because they stopped meeting regularly in person.
The online research was carried out on behalf of the Oddfellows by Opinium between 7th July and 10th July, surveying 2,000 UK adults aged 18 and over. The results were weighted to be nationally representative.
Vecta Isle of Wight Oddfellows has around 260 members and organises regular social events, activities and meetups across the Island.
Penny-sue, Social Organiser for Isle of Wight Oddfellows, has said:
“Summer is often full of opportunities to get out, meet people and spend time with friends and family. But as winter approaches, many people find they have fewer social plans and can start to feel isolated.
Article continues below this advertisement “That’s where groups like ours can help. We provide easy routes to meet other local people.
“We’ve lots of opportunities coming up during Friendship Month, and the friendships formed through groups like ours can have a real and lasting impact on wellbeing throughout the year.”
A morning of living history, songs and displays exploring the occupations of Oddfellows members at the turn of the century will begin at 10:30 on 14th September at Unity Hall, St Thomas’ Square, Newport.
A coffee morning with optional line dancing will follow at the same venue from 11:00 on 25th September, while a ten-pin bowling session will be held at Ryde Superbowl from 14:00 on 28th September.
Dr Anna Machin, a doctor of evolutionary anthropology, writer and broadcaster, has said:
“Friendships need regular contact to thrive. The key is consistency, regularity and proximity.
“As winter approaches, making time for regular catch-ups can make a significant difference to your wellbeing.”
Dr Machin will also host a free friendship webinar at 19:00 on 13th October, offering practical advice on building and maintaining friendships in later life.
Established in 1810, the Oddfellows is a not-for-profit friendly society with around 39,000 members across 91 UK branches.
Membership costs from £25 a year, with members able to access social activities alongside care and welfare support, group travel, volunteering and fundraising opportunities.
For more information about local events, contact Maretta on 01983 523115, email [email protected] or visit www.friendshipmonth.com.
Sounds like a great idea.