u3as across the UK have voted for significant governance reforms in the Third Age Trust, marking a pivotal moment for the movement.
At the Trust’s AGM on Wednesday 16th October 2024, members overwhelmingly passed a special resolution that paves the way for the creation of a u3a Council. This new body is intended to enhance the support provided to the u3a Board and strengthen the governance structure of the organisation.
The changes come as part of the wider “Fit for the Future” campaign, aimed at increasing member involvement in the running of the Third Age Trust and further empowering u3as across the country. With the introduction of this new governance model, more members will now have a say in how the Trust operates and supports local u3as, which play a vital role in communities throughout the UK.
This vote coincides with the appointment of a new leadership team at the Trust. Allan Walmsley has taken the helm as chair, joined by Margaret Fiddes as vice chair, Derek Harwood as treasurer, and Iain Cassidy as CEO. Together, they are set to steer the organisation through this transformative period.
“It’s an absolute delight and a privilege to have become the u3a movement’s new CEO,” Cassidy said. “I feel as though I’m standing on the edge of an exciting new future for the Third Age Trust and the u3a movement. Rarely has the election of a new chair coincided with the arrival of a new CEO, a new vice chair, and the introduction of a new governance system.”
Cassidy acknowledged that while change will take time, the future looks bright for the movement. “There is much to look forward to. I will be getting out and about across the u3a movement and getting to know as many u3as and networks as possible over the coming year,” he added.
Chair Allan Walmsley expressed his satisfaction with the results of the AGM, stating: “I am delighted that this significant change for the structure of the u3a movement has been passed by a very comfortable majority. This change will lift member involvement in national issues to a new level and create greater transparency and diversity of opinion. But most importantly, it places member representatives front and centre in making decisions and making things happen in the areas that matter most to u3as.”
The Third Age Trust, through the u3a network, continues to be a hub for learning, community, and connection for people in the later stages of life. With over 1,000 u3as across the UK, members can engage in a wide range of interest groups and national initiatives, from walking and yoga to genealogy and yachting.
The u3a, formerly known as the University of the Third Age, focuses on peer-led learning, with groups run by and for members. For a modest annual fee, local u3as offer access to a vibrant community and opportunities to explore new interests and friendships.
