Oadby and Wigston

 

University of the Third Age

 

History of Our First Ten Years

 

Although 28 February 2001 marked our first monthly meeting, quite a lot happened before our debut.   In early 2000 the Activities Co-ordinator at Age Concern Oadby & Wigston discussed with me the possibility of setting up a local U3A.  Although Age Concern was the prime mover here, it was always understood that if it took off the U3A would be totally independent.

We met officers from the Market Harborough U3A who told us how they got started and how they were organized;  we also had national and regional advice.  We arranged an ‘Open Day’ at the Age Concern Day Centre and put forward ideas for activities and interest groups.  There was an encouraging response and we started meeting in February 2001, with a number of interest groups setting up and very soon a monthly Newsletter.  Initially we met at Age Concern, but the membership quickly grew and we moved to larger premises at the Kings Centre.  Since then we have had to move around a bit.

Apart from our own activities, we are in regular contact with other U3As in Leicestershire through regional meetings.  When the Third Age Trust – the ‘mother’ organisation – held 2 AGMs in Leicester, we were able to assist and meet members from U3As all over the country.  There are now about 700 of these.

From meeting others we know that each U3A has its own characteristics, depending on area, population and facilities.  Some are huge, some have two-figure membership only.  However each one is as strong as its members, people willing to act on the committee, run interest groups and organise events.  We have done well, but we could go further.  

Eileen Holly, Chair