Thank you to members who completed our recent online survey. We received 88 replies, a 30% response rate, which is encouraging as surveys of this nature typically experience between 10 and 30 percent participation levels.

We appreciate not everybody likes completing surveys, so we appreciate receiving responses from a good proportion of the membership.

 

An area of concern was that we received some anecdotal comments that some of you did not receive the email about the survey.

 

We have not received any bounce backs from the email addresses we hold for members which suggests the emails were delivered to everyone.

However, it maybe that some members’ IT systems have treated the emails as junk or spam and therefore not delivered it to your inboxes.

 

The main points of the survey responses are as follows:
1. The majority of replies, 78, (88%), told us you had been introduced to Bolton u3a by word-of-mouth recommendation.

2. The majority of replies 82, (93%) told us the reason for joining was to socialise and to learn or gain knowledge of topics

3. We were told by 70 respondents (79%), that their expectations in these areas had been  met.

4. We were told by 52 respondents (59%), that they attended the monthly meetings, there were mixed views about the quality of the visiting speakers and the relevance of their topics

 

5. We asked for views on the u3a Matters magazine. This was read by 50 respondents (56%), with mixed views about the value of the magazine.

6. We asked about attendance at our current list of groups. On average respondents were attending 6 groups.

 

7. Some replies suggested they were interested in other groups but were unable to get to them because of conflict of diary commitments with other groups or outside interests

8. Our Group Leaders will review the comments we have received in relating to their subject area.

 

9. We asked for suggestions for additional activities that members would like to see on offer.

The following topics were suggested and will be developed: 

• A second quiz group 
• Foreign language learning and conversation
• IT and computer skills 
• English Literature and Creative Writing
• MOTO – Members On Their Own – for social and theatre outings

 

10.Finally, we invited members to offer up any comments or suggestions. Here is a selection of the comments made: 

• U3A has become an important part of my life. Considering the number and variety of interest groups, it is perhaps surprising that the overall membership is not higher. I think that probably many people find it a safe organisation to belong to, which offers a lot without making too many demands. 

 

• Other u3a groups have the choice of receiving TAM, with a reduced annual payment. I read it but could easily do without it. I know people who have asked to opt out and have been told it's not an option. They put the magazine straight in the recycling. Generally, I think Bolton u3a has vastly improved recently, it seems more light-hearted with more diverse groups. Thank you, Chair, Committee and group leaders for all your work.

 

• As I recently lost my husband, I find everything I go to helps me. 

 

• I think Bolton U3A serves a very useful purpose and haven't met anyone yet who doesn't enjoy what it has to offer.

 

 

If this Summary has prompted any further thoughts or comments from members, then please let us know. Email chairman@boltonu3a.org.uk

Bolton U3A is a Registered Charity Number 1140495