Principles of Membership

“Networks are informal groupings of u3a's usually local to each other. Representatives from each u3a meet to share ideas, events, speakers, and training sessions, to discuss issues and to support each other. Networks are vital links in the communication chain across the organisation and are recognised and valued by the Trust.” - Third Age Trust

The Reciprocal Arrangement

The u3a's that are included in the Avalon "reciprocal arrangement" are all participating u3as. That is Camelot (Castle Cary), Chard, Ilminster and District, Crewkerne and District, Somerton, Street and Glastonbury, and Martock u3as.

The principle is that members, whose u3a's are in the reciprocal arrangement, can join an interest Group in another u3a providing:

1. Their own u3a didn't have that Interest Group.

2. They were not taking the place of a member of the u3a that hosted that Group.

3. That they paid any incurred fees due to that Group, the same as any other member.

4. They encouraged members within their own u3a, to start a similar Interest Group.

All members of participating u3as can attend any regular Open Meetings, without paying a membership fee, but still subject to the rules of the host u3a.

Terminology

An 'Avalon Representative' does not have to be a Committee Member from their own u3a, as quite often a long term member, perhaps someone who has been in various roles in the past, or someone who is new to their u3a with bundles of enthusiasm would have a lot to offer?