Reading Oddfellows are inviting people to celebrate Friendship Month by joining taster activities in Thatcham

Reading Oddfellows is inviting West Berkshire residents to a series of special taster events designed to bring people together, writes Bethany Sirianni.

The not-for-profit local group, made up of around 1,000 members, mostly older adults, wants to encourage people to push past any doubts and say ‘yet’ to giving these tasters a try.

With a group set up in Thatcham it is easy to join in the action.

Promising a warm welcome to any newcomers, branch secretary Debbie Jex 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.

“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.

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

“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.”

The Thatcham group is next meeting at the Thatcham Memorial Hall, Brownsfield Road, Thatcham, RG18 3HF at 7.30pm on Thursday, September 25, when there will be an evening of crafting.

There will be free taster sessions in Reading too, including a concert and ‘get to know us’ lunch, both at Oddfellows Hall, Oxford Road.

Reading Oddfellows also holds events in Tilehurst, Pangbourne and Thatcham and the Oddfellows nationally run around 60 online social events through Zoom each month which are free and open to the general public.

Oddfellows has been celebrating Friendship Month for 15 years and looks forward to celebrating with new friends this September.

To register an interest in attending one of Reading Oddfellows’ Friendship Month taster events, or to find out more about the group and its activities, email readingoddfellows@oddfellows.co.uk, call Debbie Jex on (0118) 957 3354 or request a local information pack at www.friendshipmonth.com