Friendly groups where retirements come together

Retirement is a chance to begin an exciting new chapter. But for some, it can come with unexpected challenges such as feelings of isolation or a sense of lost purpose.

Local friendship group South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows wants to remind retirees that its community meetups can help them explore new interests, build lasting friendships, and make the most of this stage of life.

Julie Davis, Social Events Organiser of South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire said: “We understand that retirement can be a big adjustment. When work no longer fills your days, it’s easy to feel at odds or disconnected.

“Our group is here to help people find a new rhythm, reconnect with others, and embrace this next phase with confidence.”

She added: “Retirement is much more than having free time – it’s about adjusting to a lifestyle where work isn't the centre of everything.”

South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows is a not-for-profit mutual society and has around 600 local members, who are mainly older adults. It hosts regular social events across Sheffield, Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster, Worksop, Dronfield and Hope Valley areas.

Group member Ann Jebson, from Rotherham, retired from her career in managerial hospitality in 2018. She said joining the Oddfellows helped her build a new routine in retirement.

Ann said: “When I first retired, I thought I’d spend my days relaxing. But I quickly found that I missed the social connections and routine that came with work.

“Joining the Oddfellows changed all of that. It’s given me the chance to volunteer, meet new people, and get involved in local events. I’ve found a sense of purpose that I didn’t know I was missing.”

As well as its events, Oddfellows members can access opportunities to volunteer, wellbeing support and a travel club.

To find out more about South Yorkshire & North Derbyshire Oddfellows, people can get in touch by calling 01709 838673 or emailing [email protected], or visiting www.oddfellows.co.uk/retirement.