Group Information for MEMBERS
GUIDELINES
Group Meetings
Group meetings normally take place at members' homes. Most groups rotate amongst the members but some may keep to one venue because of convenience or space. Occasionally, a group may meet at a hired hall/room in which case the group members will share the costs.
Any additional expenses incurred within a group are met by group members.
In our u3a, each member pays 50p towards refreshments provided by the host at each group meeting they attend, whether or not they partake. From time to time there may also be photocopies to pay for which relate to particular studies. If you have to miss a session, please contact the host/organiser in advance to spare them unnecessary preparations, such as assembling more chairs, cups etc.
Full Groups
If a member finds that a group that they wish to join is full they should contact the Group Organiser and ask to be put on its waiting list. Should it be indicated that there is unlikely to be a place in the near future, contact the Groups Coordinator who may investigate the possibility of starting up a new group.
Leaving A Group
Members of groups are asked to inform the Group Organiser when they are leaving, thus freeing up their place for others.
New Groups
New or existing members who have a specialist subject for which they would like to set-up a group, are requested to contact the Groups Coordinator.
Payment For Lifts
At current prices of around £1.40 per litre and assuming an average consumption of 40 mpg, a mileage rate of 16p per mile is considered appropriate.
However it is accepted that some members may prefer to use a flat amount for short journeys and an amount of £1.00 for journeys within the town is suggested with the mileage rate reserved for longer trips.
In Case Of Emergency
Download an Accident Report form.
In order to facilitate medical assistance in the event of an accident or medical emergency while members are away from home participating in u3a group activities, the committee recommends that they have with them in an easily accessible location the following information:
- Name and address
- Date of birth
- Allergies
- Current medication
- Next of kin
- Blood type
u3a Subject Network
There is a 'Subject Network' on the u3a National website www.u3a.org.uk whereby specialist help for Groups from Archaeology to World Religions is available.
Many of these publish frequent newsletters. Access is via the 'Members' Area' of www.u3a.org.uk (you need to register to view these pages) and thence to 'Subject Networks'.
The Resource Centre
The Resource Centre in the National Office in Bromley has a collection of non-book material available to all u3a groups to borrow free of charge except for the cost of return postage. There are dvds and cd roms available in a wide range of subjects. Access is via the 'Members' Area' of www.u3a.org.uk (you need to register to view these pages) and thence to 'Resource Centre'. You will need to register separately to view this area. If you would like more detail about a particular item do not hesitate to contact the Resource Centre on 020 8315 0199. There are a number of online courses available via the National Office.
English Heritage
English Heritage allow u3a groups free admission to their properties giving 14 days notice. Full details are given on the English Heritage website.
Photographs
Photographs of Group Activities can be provided to show on this website. Please email the files (jpeg please!) to the Groups Co-ordinator.