As the evenings grow shorter and routines shift as we approach the end of summer, new research suggests many friendships begin to drift too, with face-to-face socialising becoming noticeably less frequent during the winter months. Four in ten Brits (42%) say maintaining friendships and seeing friends requires more effort during the colder months, with cost (40%), the weather (22%) and lack of time (17%) among the biggest barriers preventing people from attending organised social activities. Despite these challenges, regular contact remains one of the cornerstones of lasting friendships. More than a third (36%) say keeping in touch regularly is essential to maintaining a friendship, second only to supporting each other through difficult times (40%). As we enter Friendship Month, the consequences of not making time for friends can be significant. Nearly two-thirds (62%) admit they have lost touch with a good friend because they stopped meeting up in person regularly, while 23% say they would like to join an organised social group, highlighting a strong appetite for opportunities that help people stay connected throughout the year. Jayne Holgate from The Oddfellows is available for interviewS to discuss the findings, which highlight the importance of affordable, accessible ways for people to come together in person and help avoid seasonal declines in the social interaction that is so important for maintaining friendships. Evolutionary anthropologist Dr Anna Machin is also available for interviewS to explain why making a conscious commitment to social activities is essential for our mental health and wellbeing. Drawing on the science of human relationships, Anna can discuss why regular face-to-face interaction helps build stronger social bonds, why our social lives often decline during the winter months, and the simple steps we can take to maintain meaningful connections all year round.
Filming opportunities available upon request, at events hosted by The Oddfellows across local branches in the UK