Merton u3a is part of a national organisation that operates on the self-help principle; it's run by the members for the members, who have reached their 'third age' and run a variety of interest groups. The range is varied including languages, current affairs, arts and crafts, music, cycling etc. u3a offers the chance of learning new skills, imparting your own knowledge and skills, creating a new social life and making new friends through shared interests.
The organisation has around 90 interest groups to offer in addition to providing talks on diverse subjects in a local community hall. The Board of Trustees is run by volunteers who can carry on using their governance skills and their skills in areas of finance and digital technology. Members can also be involved in social activities: Sunday lunches, coffee mornings, visits to local places of interest. Walking groups promote both mental and physical health, while the availability of long distance learning caters for housebound members.
