Cosham coffee morning created to help local people feel more connected

People in the Portsmouth area who are looking to make new friends and become more involved in their local community are being invited to a new monthly coffee morning launched by Southampton Oddfellows.

The local friendship group, which organises regular social events across the region, has introduced the new gathering at The Red Lion Hotel in Cosham after receiving interest from local people keen for more opportunities to meet others and build social connections closer to home.

The first coffee morning will take place on Monday 20 July at 10.30am, with future gatherings taking place on the third Monday of every month. The events will be jointly hosted by Dennis Clay, Social Secretary for Southampton Oddfellows’ Lord Nelson Branch, and local Oddfellows member Nix Harvey.

The coffee morning is open to both members and newcomers. Attendance is free, with guests paying for any refreshments they order.

Oddfellows Social Secretary, Dennis Clay, said: "We've had enquiries from people in the Portsmouth area who would love more opportunities to meet new people locally and become part of something in their community, so launching a regular coffee morning in Cosham felt like a natural next step.

"The Oddfellows is all about bringing people together through friendship, and we know that making new social connections can have a real positive impact on people's wellbeing.

"Nix and I are really looking forward to looking after any new faces who come along. Our events attract people from all walks of life, and the coffee morning offers a relaxed and informal opportunity to chat over a drink, get to know others and feel part of the local community."

In addition to coffee mornings, Southampton Oddfellows organises a varied programme of social activities throughout the year, including lunches, talks, outings and special events, helping its group members to stay socially active and connected.

Southampton Oddfellows has around 750 members, who are mostly older adults.

The Society also offers a range of member benefits and opportunities to volunteer, support charitable causes and enjoy new experiences.

To find out more about the new Portsmouth coffee morning or to receive an events diary with upcoming events in the area, contact Dennis Clay at [email protected] or call 07752 406 566.

More information about Southampton Oddfellows can be found at www.oddfellows.co.uk/branches/southampton-district-branch