The Jolly Dollies is an organisation founded by widows for widows who are looking to regain a social life through friendship and organised social events.
Often after the loss of our partner in life, it is very difficult to know where to start when we are trying to return to social situations. The founder of The Jolly Dollies, Yvonne Vann, experienced this herself when she lost her husband six years ago. After his death she found social situations very difficult and even though friends who were couples were always welcoming and sympathetic, she often felt like the odd one out.
In an attempt to help other widows in similar situations to build lasting friendships with those who are able to relate, Yvonne founded the Jolly Dollies. It all began with just two members, now there are Jolly Dollies groups across the UK helping widows to regain a social life.
Local lady Val Nichols is now hoping to start a Jolly Dollies group in Bradley Stoke, so that more widows can find camaraderie and friendship with other women that understand. If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact Val by email at fisher_b2 AT sky.com or via Jolly Dollies founder Yvonne Vann on 01934 624104.
Jolly Dollies membership has a number of varied benefits, from the camaraderie of belonging to a group of women who completely understand to chatting to members locally and nationally on the Jolly Dollies website forum. Members are also encouraged to have a monthly meeting in a local restaurant or pub so that group members can participate with ideas for a monthly social agenda, such as:
- Lunches and dinners,
- Coffee outings
- Theatre Visits
- Quiz nights at the local pub
- Meeting up for walks
The Jolly Dollies website has a monthly newsletter with tips on keeping fit, nutrition, beauty, holidays, recipes, member’s stories and lots more.
If there is not a Jolly Dollies group near you, once you become a member The Jolly Dollies will help you start your own group. Just imagine how good you will feel knowing you have helped other widows in the same situation to come together and support each other.
For more information on The Jolly Dollies, please visit their website at www.thejollydollies.com or contact the founder Yvonne Vann on 01934 624104 or thejollydollies@gmail.com
This article originally appeared in the January edition of the Bradley Stoke Journal magazine, delivered FREE, EVERY MONTH, to all homes in Bradley Stoke.
