Retirees struggling with loneliness or a loss of social contact are being encouraged to join an Isle of Wight friendship group and build new connections.
Vecta Oddfellows, which organises regular social activities across the Island, is highlighting the importance of friendship and community in retirement, particularly for those who miss the routine and social interaction that comes with working life.
The group is encouraging retirees to try new activities and, importantly, stick with them, as experts suggest it can take around 3 months to develop meaningful connections and a genuine sense of belonging.
Maretta Heap, Secretary at Vecta Oddfellows, explained:
“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.
“Our friendship group gives people regular opportunities to meet others, share experiences and discover new interests. Most importantly, it helps people find a place where they feel welcome, valued and that they belong.”
Vecta Oddfellows is part of the Oddfellows, a national not-for-profit friendly society which brings people together through social events, walks, outings and shared interests. Members can also enjoy group holidays, volunteer and access wellbeing support.
Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin, who has been working with the society, says attending the same group regularly over several months can help people develop trust, familiarity and lasting friendships.
Maretta added:
“What’s important is giving yourself time for friendships to develop naturally. If you are looking to expand your social life, then why not give us a go – try a few of our events and we’re confident you’ll soon start to feel part of the gang.”
The local group welcomes people interested in expanding their social circles, with regular activities including:
-
Coffee mornings at Ryde Library on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30.
-
Darts at The Binstead Arms on the third Friday of each month at 14:00.
-
Cards afternoons at Unity Hall in Newport on alternate Wednesdays at 13:30.
Newport resident Ray Harrington-Vail joined the group after retiring from a career in environmental charity management and says it has made a real difference to his social life.
He said:
“When I retired, I didn’t realise how much I’d miss being part of a group of people and having regular social contact. Joining the Oddfellows gave me more than things to do. It gave me friendships, a sense of belonging.”
Dr Machin is encouraging people approaching or already enjoying retirement to discover new interests, give social groups a fair chance and focus on building genuine relationships.
She 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.”
She will also host a free public webinar on Tuesday 8th December at 19:00, sharing practical advice on finding a sense of belonging and adjusting to life after work. Registration is available through the Oddfellows website.
Anyone interested in attending a Vecta Oddfellows event or receiving a free information pack and events diary can call Maretta or Rachel on 01983 523115, email [email protected] or visit www.oddfellows.co.uk/contact.
