NEWS for ...
Petersfield u3a members

Welcome to our latest e-newsletter, giving a quick summary of what’s happening within Petersfield u3a. To find out more, simply click the blue links to go straight to our website.

Last call for Learning Grant applications!

Do you have big ideas? The Petersfield u3a 2026 Learning Grant Scheme closes for applications on Friday, 17 July.  There is still time to apply: just click on the link to our website https://petersfield.u3asite.uk/2026-learning-grants-scheme/. The scheme is designed to help groups try something new, develop their activities, or enhance members’ learning in creative ways. We follow Charity Commission guidance, which encourages the use of surplus funds towards the charity’s purpose. For Petersfield u3a this is: “the advancement of education, and in particular the education of older people and those retired from full-time work, by all means including associated activities conducive to learning and personal development in Petersfield and the surrounding district”. In this pilot scheme, we aim to help as many members as possible, within our funding limit of £5,000 this year.
Key Dates: Applications close on 17 July; results by the end of August; funds available in September; grants available until the end of March 2027.

Dates for your Diary

2.30 pm – Monday, 13 July
General Interest – Cyber Security – Staying Safe Online
This talk, given by Derrick Heywood from Hampshire Cyber Watch, aims to raise awareness of current cybersecurity scams and provide simple tips for protecting ourselves from becoming victims.  It will also include information on how to report scams and to whom.

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2.30 pm – Wednesday, 15 July 
Arts and Heritage – Famous and Infamous of Portsmouth
Portsmouth is celebrating 100 years of city status, so this is a good time to learn about some of the characters, from philanthropists to murderers, who have influenced Portsmouth’s rich history. This talk will be given by Madeleine Salvetti, who, after a teaching career, is now a qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guide, welcoming tourists arriving on cruise ships and promoting Portsmouth’s heritage.

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2.00 pm – Tuesday, 21 July
Health Matters – Falls Prevention
Sam Melia, a physiotherapist from Physio-logical at Stansted Park, will talk about why falls happen, the common risk factors and what can be done to reduce the likelihood of falling. He will cover the importance of strength, balance, mobility and staying active, as well as practical tips to improve safety at home and in everyday life. The session will also discuss how exercise and simple lifestyle changes can help maintain independence, confidence, and overall well-being.

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10 am to 12.30 pm – Wednesday, 29 July
Welcome Coffee Morning – All new and existing members are invited to join us for the next bi-monthly coffee morning to be held at Petersfield Community Centre. Please come along and meet fellow members, get help with any IT issues, meet members of the Committee and make new friends - all while enjoying a drink and unlimited biscuits!

Have Your Say

‘Connect’ always welcomes news and feedback from Petersfield u3a members, so please contact The Editor

To ensure the e-newsletter is easy and enjoyable to read and that its style is consistent, the copy will likely be edited.

The next issue of ‘Connect’ will be emailed to you on Friday, 24 July, with a copy deadline for all contributions of Monday, 20 July.