The Benefits Of Joining u3a

It is amazing to learn that even after it was founded 42 years ago, many people have not heard of u3a or know exactly what it is.  But through u3a over 400,000 people are exploring new experiences and continually learning – positive ageing in action!

The u3a movement encourages those who now have more time on their hands, to come together and enjoy a whole host of subjects, skills and activities. There is plenty of opportunity to find a u3a in every region, and the number of members is growing every day.

Learning New Skills

Local u3as offer a wide range of interest groups chosen and run by the members. These vary from u3a to u3a, with a diverse and eclectic range including music groups (Shanty Group pictured), sports, and art. In addition members can access online talks and workshops. Most of these opportunities are presented by members themselves; sharing their knowledge or skills with others across the movement. There is also a wide range of talks on offer from well-known speakers and organisations.

Combatting Loneliness

Loneliness is a subject which has come to the fore more than ever since the COVID pandemic.  The u3a movement brings together people in local, online and national communities where they develop their interests and learn from each other. For people struggling with loneliness or hoping to make new friends, it can make a huge difference.

Keeping Active

The u3a movement has long been the catalyst for members to experience a veritable treasure trove of wide and varied skills. Many of which can add ‘well-being’ on both mental and physical terms to their titles.

This month is the ideal time to start to think about getting active, the days are getting longer and evenings lighter and u3a has all the tools that members need to access many courses of interest for physical activities.  Ranging from Tai Chi and Qigong to Laughter Yoga (pictured) and Country Dancing.

Benefits To Mental Health

As people get older, mental health can be shaped by life experiences and adverse events such as divorce or bereavement. Those who no longer work can also feel that their social circles have got smaller and this can result in a feeling of loneliness or isolation.  The World Health Organisation has stated that around a quarter of older people can feel socially isolated and this can add to mental health conditions in later life.

u3a offers an excellent opportunity to combat loneliness and expand social circles. Many members form lasting friendships through group activities, leading to strong connections.  Physical activity too can result in a more positive outlook and a feeling of accomplishment.  

Why not read what members themselves have to say below?

Marlene Jones, “My daughter says I’m in the best fitness of my life. I can keep up with her most of the time. That is down to the u3a.”

“As well as the physical benefits, there are the social benefits. I’ve made lots of friends and we meet outside of netball for coffee and Christmas meals. It’s great fun, there’s plenty of camaraderie and we have a real laugh. They are a great bunch of ladies.”

Mac McKechnie, “I would be lost without u3a“

“In 2018, I was struck down with Sepsis, and spent some time in hospital, and came out a different and weakened person. Fortunately, u3a was there still, and I had to adapt my lifestyle a bit as my mobility suffered slightly. This did lead to me creating and getting u3a Walking Cricket going as a sport, which has rolled out across Yorkshire.”

Lindsay Hewitt, “It’s helped my painting enormously and it’s so engaging“

“I started painting in my garden during lockdown. It was a beautiful spring, so I was able to spend lots of time outside doing something that I loved. It was around this time that I joined the u3a. I’d heard about the national u3a Scotland painting competition and entered my triptych piece, My Covid Garden – and I won! I was delighted.”

If you are interested in joining the u3a, simply log on to their website at www.u3a.org.uk to see what groups are in your area or email info@u3a.org.uk