Author Archives: Christine Keighley

Learn to Live: Report on benefits of u3a movement published

learn to live report news 1

A new report, titled Learn to Live: A blueprint for better health and wellbeing, has been published. This report sheds light on the value of a low-cost, non-formal learning model for better health and wellbeing, and for healthy and active ageing.

Non-formal learning, unlike formal learning, happens outside organised education. It is a mutual experience with no strict hierarchies – everyone shares their skills and learns from each other. There are no qualifications as continued learning is its own reward. The u3a is arguably one of the biggest and most successful examples of non-formal learning in the world. 

Now, a report published by u3a suggests that non-formal learning can help tackle loneliness, encourage social connection, and even improve the health of participants and wider communities. The u3a model embodies the five ways to promote wellbeing – connecting, being active, taking notice, continuing to learn, and giving. It also tackles ageist attitudes and stereotypes. u3a members are active participants in society who continue to learn and give back to their communities. 

The report calls for greater recognition of the value of non-formal learning and for more resources to enable access to many more who could benefit. 

“The u3a movement contributes so much to society. It not only supports people to continue learning and engaging in life, but it draws people together and helps to build strong, connected communities. This is a vital antidote to the widespread and devastating effects of loneliness and social isolation.” Says Harriet Radermacher, author of the report and Policy Manager at the Third Age Trust.

“We hope that this report will raise awareness of the value of non-formal learning, and generate momentum to ensure this low cost and accessible option is available for people of all ages to come together and stay healthy and active.”

You can read the full report here

 

Interview on local radio

Alyson and Steven, Committee Members, were guests of Paul Stacey, Erewash Sounds Breakfast Show host on Friday 27th September, promoting Ilkeston u3a.

They talked about all the great interests and activities that members enjoy, and how to join in the fun.

Listen again to the broadcast below

Guiding Principles of the u3a movement

The Guiding Principles of the u3a Movement

The u3a movement is non-religious and non-political and has three main principles:

The Third Age Principle

  • Membership of a u3a is open to all in their third age, which is defined not by a particular age but by a period in life in which full time employment has ceased.
  • Members promote the values of lifelong learning and the positive attributes of belonging to a u3a.
  • Members should do all they can to ensure that people wanting to join a u3a can do so.

The Self-help Learning Principle

  • Members form interest groups covering as wide a range of topics and activities as they desire; by the members, for the members.
  • No qualifications are sought or offered. Learning is for its own sake, with enjoyment being the prime motive, not qualifications or awards.
  • There is no distinction between the learners and the teachers; they are all u3amembers.

The Mutual Aid Principle

  • Each u3a is a mutual aid organisation, operationally independent but a member of The Third Age Trust, which requires adherence to the guiding principles of the u3a movement.
  • No payments are made to members for services rendered to any u3a.
  • Each u3a is self-funded with membership subscriptions and costs kept as low as possible.
  • Outside financial assistance should only be sought if it does not imperil the integrity of the u3a movement.