Meet the Trustee meeting.
April 25th notes
Thanks to all of you for your positive participation on Zoom which dealt with the topic of the way forward in running a u3a. Society changes and it is ok to adjust.
The difficulty of encouraging members to be on the committee was raised. A plan to limit the length of the committee meetings eg 1 hour etc.or perhaps a rotating Chair might help. It was emphasised that a leader is very important to guide proceedings, take things forward, to have a plan. Sharing roles and, or, shadowing is a useful tool along with training.Training face to face as well as on Zoom was considered to be worth pursuing.A great plan would be to get Treasurers /Secretaries/Chairs together to share best practice. Sometimes myths and mysteries need to be dispelled and good training is important.
The issue of u3as applying for Charitable status came up. In Scotland there is a choice whether to apply or not. We all follow OSCR guidelines.Pros Cons to be explored in a future meeting.
Networks both formal and informal are being encouraged.It would be great if I knew of their existence but don’t want to impose them but would not want u3as to be left out. Sharing of good practice is so helpful.
The whole concept of having groups lasting for a limited period of time was raised.Both are appropriate of course.
The Constitution can put a time limit on post holders but this can be changed.A constitution is for the benefit of the u3a and sometimes needs adjusted just to keep things going.
Are Satellites the way forward?
I do not plan to have another Zoom meeting until September but will however send a questionnaire round to ask your thoughts in July. Please look out for it and respond.
See you in Edinburgh at the u3a Scotland AGM?
Liz Ervine
Trustee for Scotland
Contact email - Liz.Ervine@u3a.org.uk