National Friendship Month

Friendship is a wonderful thing. Spending time with people who share our values and beliefs can make everything seem better. In such worrying financial times, where some may be thinking about cutting back on socialising, it’s critical to keep catching up with friends.

To mark the start of Friendship Month, new research released today by the Oddfellows reports that in light of the rising costs of living, one in ten (12%) say they’re concerned about being able to afford to socialise with friends, and sadly one in ten (10%) admit they have friends that can’t afford to meet up at the moment.

To celebrate national Friendship Month this September (friendshipmonth.com), the Oddfellows is promoting the benefits of joining a local friendship group. Its branches are hosting 100s of free or inexpensive taster social events, such as walks, talks, lunches and coffee mornings, to make it easier for people to make new friends in their community.

Aston spoke to psychologist Dr Jennifer Wild and Jane Nelson, CEO at the Oddfellows Friendly Society.