The Oddfellows is a traditional branch friendly society. This means that we are a mutual, non-profit society, run for the benefit of our members.
The Oddfellows' main aim is the welfare of its members; ensuring that they receive the help, support, advice and social involvement they require. For this reason we continually review the services and benefits available to members to ensure the support and help we provide is relevant to today's needs.
We have no shareholders, so any 'profits' made by the Society are passed back to members in the form of discretionary benefits - the same benefits you'll be eligible for if you join.
We were officially formed in 1810 when a group of ordinary people banded together to protect themselves and their families - vital at a time when there was no welfare state, National Health Service or trade unions to rely on. The idea was to benefit from mutual support - ordinary people helping each other in times of need.
Even then, members regularly got together to enjoy the social side of life - a tradition very much alive in the Oddfellows today. These are the two main elements of membership today; enjoying the social side of life and helping members in need - hence the phrase 'Making friends, helping people' - which sums up exactly what The Oddfellows is all about.
We have a thriving branch (or 'lodge') network across the UK. These are where members regularly meet for social events or lodge meetings. Members can also contact their local branch secretary for support and information.
The Oddfellows is always on the lookout for volunteer members - people who have time on their hands and would like to become more involved in their local community. Active involvement can encompass everything - from attending the occasional social event to visiting ill or infirm members.
The Oddfellows has no political or religious affiliations - we simply look after the interests of our members. Membership is open to all regardless of age, sex, political persuasion, creed, colour or disabilities.
Membership of the Oddfellows costs just £25 a year. Members are eligible for a variety of benefits including:
§ Regular programme of social events
§ Access to your local branch for information and help
§ Oddfellows Advice Service
§ Oddfellows Care Service
§ Oddfellows Travel Club
§ Financial assistance towards dental & optical treatment costs
§ Free legal aid scheme
§ Accidental death cover
§ Convalescent benefits
§ Benevolent grants in times of need
§
Emergency cash aid
AND MUCH MORE!
