This year the Dumfries branch of the u3a celebrates its official 30th anniversary (an ‘unofficial’ group had formed a couple of years earlier). Part of the international u3a movement, u3a is for those who are not working full time but who want to keep body and brain active by meeting new people; sharing interests with likeminded folk; or, learning something new. As u3a’s motto says, we are here to ‘learn, laugh, live’.
The Dumfries group is thriving with over 250 members enjoying monthly events such as recent talks on the perils and pitfalls of opening your garden to the public; travels in Antarctica; and the Threave Landscape Restoration Project.
Members also enjoy access to almost 40 different interest groups meeting either monthly or fortnightly. For those who want to be active there are walking, kayaking, and table tennis groups. If you enjoy being creative then the art, photography, craft or sewing groups might be your thing. Or, you can stimulate the grey matter with learning and lively conversation in groups ranging from etymology and genealogy, to history and mahjong.
There really is something for everyone and you can find out what is available on their website at dumfries.u3asite.uk.
Many members hear about u3a through friends, like member Liz, who recently joined the ukulele group: “Last year I bumped into a friend who told me about the ukulele group she had formed with u3a. It’s a small group, and all at a similar stage in life, who just enjoy playing the instrument. We have a variety of playing styles and abilities, but all muddle in together and enjoy the afternoon. They do say as you get older it is good to do things, try new activities and socialise. U3a very much fits all of these criteria and I intend staying with it.”
People join u3a for many reasons, but it’s often the opportunity to meet new people that members enjoy. Bob joined recently after a bereavement, “Since my close friend died I’ve been a bit lost and needed some new stimulus. So, when the community link worker at my GP practice showed me the list of groups, I thought I would give it a go and I’m very pleased that I have. I’ve joined the Writing Together, Scrabble and Camera groups and everyone I’ve met has been friendly and made me feel very welcome.”
Moving to Dumfries from Cheshire, where she had been a u3a member, Sally-Anne says: “I knew very few people so found u3a again. I’m very grateful to be a member of the u3a and would encourage others to look into it.”
U3a welcomes new members and, if you think u3a might be for you, you can attend up to 2 meetings before joining. If you would like to come along, please contact Kathleen Simpson, Treasurer and Membership Secretary at [email protected] .
