What Networks do
This depends on what the member u3as forming the Network want, and can offer, but it could include:
- Developing and sharing lists of potential speakers.
- Organising Network study/interest days for members of the Network's u3as (and sometimes neighbouring u3as).
- Organising training/information events for u3a committee members, potential committee members, group leaders/convenors etc.
- Organising shared learning projects.
- Establishing links with outside organisations, such as universities, and participating in local initiatives.
- Providing a regular forum for member u3as to meet to share information, disseminate good practice and discuss issues of concern.
- Sharing resources and setting up reciprocal interest group arrangements between members of the Network.
- Producing a newsletter.
- Arranging inter-u3a competitions.
- Increasing awareness of u3a in the community.
- Supporting communications to and from The Third Age Trust.
Network Structures
If you are interested in setting up a network, this section will provide further information. Networks can be regionally based or subject based. Or if you are looking for a network to join, please see the page Current Networks.
Each Network chooses its own organisational structure, some are very informal with no constitution or procedural rules, no committee, and no bank accounts, instead, the u3as could take it in turns to organise meetings and events. Other Networks may prefer to have a constitution which governs the running of the Network and defines the frequency of meetings, rules for elections to the committee, banking arrangements etc. If you intend to set up a Network bank account, you will need a constitution. Contact the Trust on
For further information about setting up a Network, please refer to: How to start and set up a network.
Funding and use of the u3a logo
Many Networks levy a small capitation fee on their member u3as. Others charge one flat rate, or a fee related to membership bands. Others choose different ways to raise funds. Some choose not to charge and ensure that all events are self-funded, but it is important that Networks remain solvent.
If your network wishes to use the u3a logo, you will have to sign a Network Affiliation Agreement (NAA) with the Trust. A copy is available from the u3a office and your signed copy will need to be sent to the CEO of the Trust for signature and retention:
Peer Support Groups and Role-based Networks
A Peer Group is defined as a grouping of members holding similar committee roles or other responsibilities within their u3a. (e.g. a ‘Treasurers’ peer group). A Peer Group or Role-Based Network would enable members to suggest ways of solving shared problems, describe best practice and exchange ideas for new developments, etc. The members could be current post-holders but could also be past or prospective postholders or an ordinary u3a member – wherever the interest or competency lies.
The Network Link Team has expanded the previous guidance on setting up and running peer support groups with input from various networks and u3as.
Download the latest Peer Group advice document below.
Peer Support Groups Guidance (72.02 KB)
Membership of any Network is voluntary. Some Networks cross regional boundaries. Some u3as choose to belong to more than one Network, especially if they are situated on county borders. It isn’t necessary to join the Network nearest to you. Networks can also work together.
In some places there may be small Networks of four or five neighbouring u3as working together inside a larger Network.
Click on the button below to view u3a's current networks.
