What is the u3a ?

All u3as are self-governing organisations, registered as charities under the auspices of The Third Age Trust, to enable people who are no longer in full time employment to meet, in an informal group environment, with others who share their interests and hobbies. Swindon u3a manages these groups as enjoyable activities, first and foremost - very rarely for formal qualifications. Members can choose from over 130 different ‘interest’ groups, ranging in categories from Arts & Crafts to Music, Languages to Health, History to Keeping Fit in a wide variety of ways, as well as many more recreational and academic activities.

The Aim: to MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY, A HEALTHY MIND - and TO MAKE FULL USE OF OUR 3rd AGE.

Who can be members of the u3a?

Anyone not in full time employment. This is not a specific requirement, but since the majority of activities occur during a weekday, people in full time employment would not be able to participate in the activities.

How is the Swindon u3a Organised?

Into a series of groups running a number of activities. There may be one or more groups for a particular activity and there may be several levels for a particualr activity e.g. a language. A typical group has one or two group organisers, who organise the group. The groups run on the basis of everyone participating and providing a contribution and the group organisers are not intended to be permanent tutors. A management committee provides the co-ordination across all the groups and provides support to the group organisers in setting up groups and finding venues.

Is there any help for New Members?

We hold a New Members Meeting soon after the start of the year and possibly another one later in the year. You will be able to meet and chat to other new members, will hear from our Chair and other u3a Committee Members about making the most of your u3a membership. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your u3a and its many groups. The meetings are held on a Saturday morning usually starting at 10am with arrival from 9:30 onwards. The date, venue and actual time are to be advised.

How can I find out about an activity group?

1. Click on the tile labelled activities in the home page or on Activities in the menu bar above or Search for an Activity in the dropdown list.
2. From the details for each group, if there is a link labelled Further Information for the group, then that will contain further specific information for the group and, if it has been set up, a programme for the group sessions.
3. Arrange with the group organiser to attend for a 'taster' session to see what goes on.

Do I have to pay for each group session?

For the comming year 2023/24 - starting 1^st each activity group will be paying the for its own venue costs. This cost will be paid as a supplement per member of each group with a charge. The charge per member will be shown in the group's details. This supplement will normally be payable in three termly instalments, although some groups with a small charge may pay as a single instalment. Supplements will not be refundable.

When do the groups meet?

Because the u3a is intended for people not in full time employment, the groups usually meet during the day. Groups visiting outside events will be governed by the timing of those events, e.g. concerts, plays.

How often do the groups meet?

This depends on the individual group; it may be once a week, once a fortnight or once a month, with the bias being to once a fortnight. Some groups don't meet during the school holidays.

When does a subscription year start?

The Swindon u3a year runs from 1^st September to 31^st August. New members are not accepted for the month of June. New members may join from 1^st July and will be members for the next year starting on 1^st September and also for the remainder of the current year.

How much is the subscription?