Saying ‘Yes’ To New Friendships At Special Taster Events In Liverpool & Wirral With Mersey Oddfellows

CITY OF LIVERPOOL, LIVERPOOL CITY REGION.

Say ‘yes’ to new friendships at special taster events

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Friendly society, Mersey Oddfellows is inviting Liverpool and Wirral residents to a series of special taster events as part of its annual Friendship Month celebrations this September.

The local not-for-profit group, made up of around 400 members, mostly older adults, is appealing for people to push past any uncertainty or self-doubt, and to say ‘yes’ to giving their friendly group a try.

They are kicking off their festivities with a Wirral Friendship Walk hosted by Richie The Ranger on Sunday 31st August, followed by an Afternoon Tea Event and Liverpool Friendship Walk later in the month.

Promising a warm welcome to any newcomers Branch Secretary for Mersey Oddfellows, Margaret Hughes, said: “Trying new activities inevitably puts us in situations where we might feel uncomfortable or a little out of place – but that’s all part of the experience. People who try us always leave saying they wish they hadn’t worried so much and they were pleased they came along.

She added: “It’s easy to say ‘no’ to anything that challenges our regular habits. But these tasters have been specifically designed to put you at ease.

Margaret, said: “Saying ‘yes’ to giving something new a try, especially a shared experience, has so many rewards, especially for wellbeing.

She added: “Good company boosts your mood, builds your social confidence, and keeps your brain and body active. Plus, what often gets overlooked is that when you create a new circle of friends, you’re also creating a supportive network for when you might need a helping hand.”

Mersey Oddfellows has been celebrating Friendship Month since 2010, aiming to bring local people together through special taster events and to encourage the formation of new, supportive friendships.

We have lots happening throughout the area and the group is inviting local residents to try its regular get togethers in Wallasey, Upton, Waterloo and Childwall.. Further events include a monthly book club and walking group as well as day trips near and far.

The Oddfellows also runs around 60 online social events through Zoom each month which are free and open to the general public.

Toni Russell, from Aigburth, has been a member of Mersey Oddfellows for a year, she said: “You have your routine, and that’s fine, but it’s important to break out of it from time to time – to try a new cafe, walk or to have a lovely conversation with someone outside of your family or regular friendships.

She added: “You find out so many interesting things, and have stories to share afterwards. It lifts your spirits. You should never stop learning, or challenging yourself.

Toni said: “If you’re nervous, don’t be. We’ve all been there and understand how nerve-wracking it can feel. Give the event host a call beforehand and then that’s one new friend you’ve made already!”

Mersey Oddfellows is one of 96 branches of the Oddfellows, which is one of the oldest and largest friendly societies in the UK.

The Society aims to improve its members’ lives through friendship and support. As well as its events, members can access a variety of benefits including care and welfare support and a travel club. There are also opportunities to take part in fundraising and volunteering initiatives.

To register an interest in attending one of Mersey Oddfellows’ Friendship Month taster events, or to find out more about the group and its activities, email mersey@oddfellows.co.uk, call Margaret Hughes on 0151 6392777 or request a local info pack at www.friendshipmonth.com.