A friendship group is encouraging retirees to give new groups at least three months before deciding whether they feel a sense of belonging.
The South East Lancashire Oddfellows is a not-for-profit friendly society, with branches across the UK offering a programme of social events, talks, walks, outings and social activities.
Oddfellows recommends retirees attend several events before deciding if a group is right for them.
Social Organiser at South East Lancashire Oddfellows Natalie Kearns said: "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."
Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin, who has been helping the friendship group to understand the science behind human interactions, says regularly attending the same group over time is key to building meaningful connections, trust and familiarity.
Natalie said: "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.”
Vera joined the Oddfellows after retiring.
Vera 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.”
The Oddfellows is also encouraging retirees to explore advice from relationship expert and evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin, who recently shared her guidance on finding a sense of belonging in retirement in an article on the society's website.
In it, she encourages people to spend time getting to know the "retired you", give new groups a fair chance by attending regularly over several months, and focus on finding genuine connection rather than simply keeping busy.
Anna 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."
South East Lancashire Oddfellows hosts regular member meetups across Bury, Blackburn and Wigan.
To find out more about South East Lancashire Oddfellows' upcoming activities, call Natalie on 07564 641909 or email natalie.kearns@oddfellows.co.uk
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