Does the U3A cover the subjects that interest you?

Are you satisfied with the content of the subjects covered?

If there is no group to cover the particular subjects that interest you then something can be done about it.

Firstly a group of like-minded members need to come together. This can be done by putting an article in the newsletter or asking for an announcement at one of the monthly meetings.

Then, simply arrange a get-together at a convenient location in order to discuss what is required and how you are going to achieve it. In particular, determine who is going to be the Group Leader.

Group Leaders do NOT need to teach the subject and do NOT need particular skills in the subject. Also the meeting does NOT need to take place in your own home.

All the Group Leader has to do is to coordinate the activities of the group,i.e.keep everyone informed of what is going on and where and when.

It is useful if the Group Leader has access to e-mail, as this is a cheap and convenient method of maintaining contact with group members, but of course there is always snail-mail & telephone to fall back on.

The subject of where to meet really depends upon the nature of the group; for instance it is little problem for some groups to rotate around members’ houses.

However, if a particular piece (or pieces) of equipment is required or if numbers necessitate, it may be necessary to hire a local community centre as a meeting place. Some groups are able to meet outside, at various locations, for their activity.

Although it may be possible to receive help with initial venue costs everything must be paid for, whether it is a local community hall, the services of an outside tutor or refreshments at a person’s home. In this each group must be self-financing.

So – if the Thurrock U3A does not fully meet your needs, please consider starting a new group. It is not difficult or time-consuming and indeed there is a great deal of satisfaction to be gained. If you would like to talk this through with the Group Coordinator or one of the Committee members you will find details on the Contacts Page.