What Oddfellows raffles bought for Helston Birthing Unit

It started with a simple discovery. The birthing unit in Helston had nowhere for staff or patients to make a cup of coffee.

For local members of the Oddfellows Friendly Society, that was something worth fixing.

Raffle money put to use

Members agreed that some of the money raised through their raffles during the year should go towards a suitable coffee-making machine for the Helston Birthing Unit.

Member Janice delivered it to the unit, where it was gratefully received by Fiona, a specialist midwife there.

Janice said: “We were very pleased to be able to use some of the money raised by our members to provide something that we hope will make a small but worthwhile difference to both the staff and patients.”

Fiona said: “We are extremely grateful to the Oddfellows for their kind donation. Having access to a coffee maker will be greatly appreciated by everyone at the unit.”

Part of a much bigger picture

The society says this is one example of the many charitable acts carried out by the Oddfellows at local, national and even international level. Through its members and branches, it provides help and support to its own members and to the wider community.

Who are the Oddfellows?

The Plymouth and Truro District of the Oddfellows is part of one of the UK’s oldest friendly societies. For more than 200 years the Oddfellows has been bringing people together for friendship, community work and support through life’s ups and downs.

Local groups meet across Redruth, Truro, Plymouth and the surrounding areas. Activities include friendship groups, lunches and day trips, quizzes, talks and presentations, games and competitions, or simply a cup of tea and a chat. Members can come along to whatever interests them, at their own pace.

What membership includes

Membership gives access to care, welfare and advice services, including a dedicated Care and Welfare Helpline, local Branch care and welfare support, and a dedicated Citizens Advice service. Members can also get:

• Oddfellows Travel, with hosted group holidays, short breaks and trips
• Offers and discounts from partner organisations
• Chances to volunteer, get involved locally and help shape their Branch
• Convalescence and carer support, plus other welfare and financial support benefits (subject to eligibility and terms)
• Access to the Oddfellows’ online historical archive, covering more than 200 years of social and organisational history

The society is open to people of all ages and backgrounds, and nobody needs to know anyone beforehand. As the Oddfellows puts it, “Everyone’s welcome.”

How to get in touch

Peter English, the local District Secretary, can send out a free information pack and a diary of forthcoming events.

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 01209 200810
• Address: The Oddfellows Hall, 49 Green Lane, Redruth, TR15 1LL

More on membership, activities and benefits is on the Oddfellows website.

📷Janice and Fiona with the coffee machine