Dear Members

As we head in to 2025, I extend my warmest wishes on behalf of myself and our dedicated Area 15 Committee. Reflecting on the past year, it is heartening to acknowledge the busy and successful events that brought us together as a community. Your participation has been invaluable, and I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in the year ahead.

The Aviva Fellowship serves as an informal network designed to keep retired employees connected socially while providing essential welfare and support. Although administratively supported by Aviva, it is run locally by our committee. Area 15 Fellowship encompasses Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to Martin, Janet, Carmella, and Jean for their unwavering support in fostering our thriving community.

In this newsletter, I will first highlight our events programme before touching upon broader Fellowship information that you may have read in your InTouch magazine but is worth reiterating here.

Looking Back at Our Events in 2024

Last year’s events were met with enthusiasm and participation and have continue to grow steadily. Here’s a brief recap:

May 

Unfortunately, we had to cancel the proposed Nottingham walk due to inclement weather.

June

Our AGM at Trent Lock Golf Club was a delightful day. Some fun was had during a round of crazy golf before we sat down to our meeting and was followed with lunch enjoyed by 18 guests.

August 

We organised a tour of Belvoir Castle followed by Afternoon Tea amidst stunning views of the Vale of Belvoir. 34 guests joined us for this relaxing day.

October

Despite heavy rain impacting our planned countryside walk in Leicestershire, we proceeded with lunch which was attended by 9 guests.

December

Our Christmas Lunch at Beedles Lake Golf Club was a festive gathering with 42 attendees enjoying a welcome drink and a sumptuous three-course meal.

The positive feedback we’ve received, both verbal and written, has been immensely gratifying. It reassures us that we are creating events that resonate with you. If any members face access issues but wish to attend future gatherings, please reach out confidentially through Janet Long (Membership Secretary) so we can explore alternative arrangements. A gentle reminder: widows and widowers receiving their spouse’s Aviva pension are warmly invited to join us at these events.

If you haven’t joined us recently or have never attended an event before, we would love for you to consider participating in one or more gatherings throughout 2025. These occasions are designed not only for socialising but also for reconnecting with former colleagues while enjoying delightful outings. Details can be found on the Diary Dates page of this website. Please mark your calendars for the exciting events scheduled for this year:

For events where numbers are limited, we’ll indicate this on the booking form but in all cases early booking is encouraged to avoid disappointment. Additionally, if possible, please opt for payment via bank transfer (BACS) as it streamlines administration securely.

Other Fellowship Information

Our local website for Aviva Fellowship Area 15 here contains information not only about upcoming events but also committee contact details and pension payment dates and photographs from previous events.

Scams Awareness

I’d like to draw your attention to a couple of recent scams.

1. Beware of fake offers claiming free medical kits from various health insurers including Aviva Healthcare; these offers are fraudulent.
2. A disturbing text message regarding Winter Fuel Payments has been circulating; please disregard such messages as they are also scams.

To combat these threats effectively, remember: if you receive suspicious calls, hang up immediately! You can also dial 159 from another phone (or after waiting a few minutes) which connects you directly with your bank without risk of spoofing.

Stay vigilant – delete suspicious emails or messages without engaging further!

Thank you once again for being part of our vibrant community. Let’s make 2025 another memorable year filled with connection and camaraderie!

Best regards,

David Webster

Chairperson

Area 15 Fellowshi