Frequently asked questions
We hope that you will enjoy your membership and find our groups interesting and friendly. Do not hesitate to speak to us if you find that the area you are interested in is not covered.
To help you understand our Ware u3a we have put together some information which we hope you will find useful.
We draw upon members' knowledge and experience to teach and learn from each other. It’s all voluntary, run in informal activity sessions, covering lots of different subjects.
For more information about the Third Age Trust visit their website.
What does my membership subscription cover?
Your membership subscription, which is renewable on January 1st annually, covers the cost of membership of the The Third Age Trust and a copy of the The Third Age Matters magazine which is published five times a year.
It also entitles you to go to the Third Age Trust Events (there is usually a fee to attend):
- Educational Events
- Workshops
- AGM, EGM
- Summer Schools
It includes the printing of Membership Cards and the printing and distribution of the Newsletter.
It entitles you to attend our monthly meetings free of charge, access to the groups, and the new members get-together.
Where do I find information?
- Newsletter: Usually published once a month
- Monthly meetings: You will find group posters on notice boards as you enter the meeting room, information on the rolling screen presentation and the New Members Team and Committee members will be available to answer your questions.
For the latest information, we suggest that you visit the website regularly.
What can I expect to find at the monthly meetings?
There will be a table for recently joined members where you will be introduced to a New Members Greeter who will look after you and answer any questions you might have. It is also an ideal opportunity to meet some of the Committee.
You will be able to sign up for new groups and book coach day trips and holidays.
After announcements from our Chair, we normally have a Speaker and he / she will speak for about 50 minutes on various subjects of general interest. After the speaker, tea / coffee and biscuits are served by volunteer members.
Do I need to carry my Membership Card?
Yes. You will need to take it with you whenever you attend or partake in any u3a activity. Please make sure that you fill in your Emergency Contact number on the reverse side of your card.
You should be aware that you take part in any u3a activity at your own risk and it is your responsibility to decide if you are fit enough to do so.
How do I change my contact details?
If any of the details on your original application have changed you will need to notify the Membership Secretary. Please also let the Group Leaders know that your contact details have changed.
How do I join a group?
If you are interested in joining a group, please contact the Group Leader first via email, leaving your name, contact details and the name of the group you are interested in. Please do not go along to one of the group’s meetings without first receiving a response from the Group Leader. Some groups are limited by space at venues and there may be other constraints. The Group Leader will also need to check that you are a paid member of Ware u3a.
If your chosen group cannot take new members at the present time, please leave your contact details so that you can be added to a centralised waiting list. Once there is sufficient demand for a subject / activity, we will try to start up a new group.
Is there a limit on how many groups I can join?
There is no limit on the number of groups you can join, subject to there being space available.
What if I am not sure whether I want to join a group or not?
Contact the group leader of the group you are interested in to see if you can attend a couple of taster sessions.
Where are the groups held?
Our groups are held in various locations mainly in and around Ware; some are held in Standon.
Are there any group charges?
All the groups are self-funding. There may be a charge to cover the costs of specialised tutors / guides and / or the hiring of the venue and some groups may provide materials and printed handouts for use in their sessions.
To find out whether or not any costs are involved before joining a particular group, why not visit its web page?
Are there any events for new members?
New members will be invited to a new members coffee morning within the first few months of joining. This is a good opportunity to get to know fellow new members, meet some of the Committee / Group Leaders and to ask questions in a relaxed and informal setting.
How can I get involved?
You don’t need to have any special skills to get involved, just the ability to work as part of a team. We are always on the lookout for members to help, which could be at the monthly meetings, helping to organise a group / event or why not volunteer to help on the committee.
If you are interested, please contact Chair Pauline Petty via email explaining in what area you will be willing to help.