Lonely and new in town how do I make friends

[Shashauk]

Hello all, Ive recently moved to Hertfordshire from London after a messy divorce. Although I have a new partner we live separately. I'm finding it very isolating in my new hometown. I'd really like to make new local girlfriends but don't know how as my ds is 13 and in secondary school so meeting at school gates is out. Any ideas anyone?

Have you checked to see if there is a local Mumsnet group near you?

It's hard making friends as an adult...I always remember that friends are made through shared experience...and try to get into new things.

Ways you could consider...if you are not working, try volunteering...not only in charity shops but planting trees or helping with the homeless.

Start a course in something...lots on offer...look in the local paper.

Join the Women's guild. They're not what they used to be...many are very "young" now...with average ages of 38 to 45...loads of fun activities, nights out and craft stuff...

Hopefully there is a group near you.

Does your new partner have any couple friends? Why not have a little housewarming and ask him to invite some couples?