How do I start to make friends

I agree with Sue that NWR is a great way to meet people. I made quite a few friends when I moved back to the UK there. It is less formal than WI or Town Women's guild as we meet in each others homes, decide the programme between us and tend to be in smaller groups. I found a lot of like minded people there and found them very welcoming.

Granpe, U3a means University of the Third Age. Just right for us Grannetters !
Be prepared though that some groups are full. It depends on your area how busy the groups are.
Good luck, feel the fear and do it anyway

SueDonim, Thanks for the link to the National Women's Register looks very interesting. I am about to return to the UK and think this group would suit me very well, a range of ages is good. I enjoy my age group friends but always a good idea to make new younger friends. Even if to help me across the road in later years

Glad to be of help, Merigreen!

I've always enjoyed NWR, it's been a great way of meeting people whenever we've moved. It keeps the old brain functioning, too!

What about volunteering to do a local Gransnet or Mumsnet? They are looking for people at the moment I think.

When I moved, I made myself do a "Talking to Strangers" challenge. Everyday I went out (I walk a lot) and said hello to somebody or made a comment as I passed. It was really scary to begin with but it did make me get used to it. I would think up things to say - about the weather or some local event or about the person's dog - e.g. asking the dog's name or about their garden. I have had some really good conversations as a result and am now on casual chatting terms with quite a few people as I go down the nearby roads.

After a month I found that it began to be not so scary. I don't do it every day now but I still do it quite a lot. It has given me a bit more faith in human nature.

I've looked up what's going on in Streatham Eileen66. Here are some links for you to look at.
www.streathamtheatre.org.uk - says they have regular meets and you can do classes or help back stage.

Here is a meditation/yoga class which might help if you are feeling depressed.
www.meetup.com/Free-Meditation-Yoga-South-London/

Or what about this one?

Club Streatham 55+ Activity and Social Programme

390 Streatham High Road, Streatham, SW16 6HX
Telephone: 020 8677 5758
Updated: 21/01/2016
Sessions designed to keep you fit and active, opportunities to socialise and meet new friends.
Email:[email protected]
Website:www.better.org.uk/leisure/streatham-ice-and-leisure-centre/page/288
Sector: Public Description:

Are you 55 or over? Want to take some first steps towards being more active, but not sure where or how to start?

Our Club Activities are just for you!

Hope you find something you would like to do.

It would be helpful if people gave an idea of the area they live in then people could give ideas or make suggestions .

Wow Rosemary what a lot of useful information! I am sure Eileen will find it very helpful.
May I say "Well Done"!