Welcome to the Diss U3A Website

The University of the Third Age (U3A) is a "self-help, self-managed co-operative" dedicated to lifelong learning for older people no longer in full-time work. At Diss, we aim to provide opportunities for shared learning experiences in a wide range of specific-interest groups, monthly talks open to all members and outings to sites of general interest. We pursue learning; not for qualification, but for fun.

Diss U3A was formed in 2003 and membership is now above two hundred. The enthusiasm of members is reflected in the fact that they travel from Attleborough, Long Stratton, Eye, Garboldisham and many more areas of Norfolk and Suffolk to attend monthly and group meetings.

There are twenty-three "interest groups" varying in size from six to forty members. Many groups have a waiting list, so members are encouraged to take an active part, not just by joining existing groups, but also by initiating new groups and participating in running the monthly meeting. Recently, a new U3A Branch has been started in Harleston and one in Banham is being discussed.

The monthly meeting is held at the United Reformed Church in Mere Street on the first Thursday of each month. Doors open at 09.45, light refreshments are available until 10.20 and the meeting starts at 10.30. During this time, members can check the display table for current notices and look at the interest groups' information stand. There is also an opportunity to use the "Book-Swap".

The cost of membership is £12 per year (£22 per couple at the same address) with an admission charge of £1 for each monthly meeting (guests £2).

Members receive newsletters from the Third Age Trust and also a free copy of our quarterly Newsletter which includes a report from the Chairman and a summary of recent lectures given by guest speakers which is also sent to the local press. The leader of each interest group has the opportunity to report at least once in each year on the status and recent activities of the group. The outings co-ordinator reports on the visits that we make, as a branch, to various sites of interest at least once a year.

Other information:
Programme of Monthly Meetings - see EVENTS
Committee and other officers - see CONTACTS
Book-Swap system - Simple: You bring a book; you take one away! No, you can't dump your library!

Latest update, this page, 25th july 2010