Friendship group reaches out to retired people in Lancaster and Morecambe

A friendship group is targeting retired people in Lancaster and Morecambe in a bid to help them make the most of this stage of their life.

Lancaster and Morecambe Oddfellows says retirement is a chance to begin an exciting new chapter but recognises for some, it can come with unexpected challenges such as feelings of isolation or a sense of lost purpose.

Retirees in the area are being reminded that its community meet-ups can help them explore new interests and build lasting friendships.

Social organiser Fiona Head says the group has become a post-retirement springboard for many in the local area.

“We understand that retirement can be a big adjustment,” she said. “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.

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

Lancaster and Morecambe Oddfellows’ campaign to support retired people who may feel alone when navigating this new stage of life is inspired by the latest article from anthropologist and friend of the Oddfellows, Dr Anna Machin.

Available on the Oddfellows’ website – www.oddfellows.co.uk – her piece, ‘Five Rs for a Happier Retirement – Recognise, Reveal, Rebuild, Replace, and Rhythm’, offers a practical roadmap for retirees looking to embrace this transition with confidence and positivity.

“Dr Machin’s advice resonates with how our members feel, many of whom are retired,” said Fiona.

“Retirement is an opportunity to build a life that brings greater joy. At the Oddfellows, we’re all about creating spaces to explore this and to where friendships naturally blossom – whether it’s through hobby groups, walks or volunteering as a member.

“These shared moments are what help people truly thrive in retirement.”

Dr Anna Machin is hosting a free online webinar on Tuesday July 14 at 7pm. In this Zoom session, she’ll explore her ‘Five Rs for a Happier Retirement’ and offer expert advice on how to navigate the emotional and social aspect of this life stage.

Attendees will learn how to recognise and rebuild their identities, reveal their feelings, replace lost routines with new ones and ultimately find a new rhythm that excites them.

Fiona encourages anyone interested in retirement or facing uncertainty about the transition to join:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our local community to hear from Dr Machin and learn how to approach retirement with confidence and optimism,” she said.

“We invite everyone to join us online for this insightful and free event.”

Lancaster and Morecambe Oddfellows is part of Preston District Branch of Oddfellows which has around 400 local members, who are mainly older adults, and hosts regular social events across the region.

The Oddfellows is a not-for-profit mutual society with 91 branches across the UK that offer social opportunities for members of all ages, as well as opportunities to volunteer, wellbeing support and a travel club.

To find out more about Lancaster and Morecambe Oddfellows’ upcoming activities and to receive a free local information pack and events diary, email [email protected], call 07449586388 or visit www.oddfellows.co.uk/retirement.