Beacon is a system provided by u3a where records of member's names, addresses, phone numbers, and emergency contacts are kept. It is also used for recording which groups members are in, and allows group leaders and some committee members and officers to send email messages to members of a group or the entire membership. It is compliant with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR); a recipient of a message sent via Beacon cannot see the email address of the sender or any other recipients. There are two links for Beacon: one for members and the other for group leaders and committee members.

All links open in new web browser tabs.

Link for members	https://u3abeacon.org.uk/u3aportal.php?u3a=95&sc=SEHN
Admin link for group leaders, etc.	https://u3abeacon.org.uk/password.php

FAQs

What is the Beacon system?	The Beacon system is software that National u3a has developed over several years to help local u3as to record and maintain their membership, groups and finance information. It has been developed by volunteers of National u3a in association with a software developer to comply with Data Protection requirements so that information is as secure as possible. Most local u3as like Settle District u3a are using it now and it is being continually developed to include new features. Settle District u3a has been using it since 2017 for membership and groups information but has not yet used it fully for financial information.
What does a u3a member need to know about Beacon?	When you become a member of Settle District u3a your information is loaded into the Beacon system. By logging onto the system as an individual from our website you can see the information stored about you and, if necessary, alter it; for example, if you need to change your email address or telephone numbers or add an emergency contact person. You will also be able to see the groups that are available and join them if there is no waiting list, otherwise you will join the waiting list. If you have any questions on how to use Beacon as an individual please click the link to contact Keith Waterson, the Beacon administrator.
How does a member join a group using Beacon?	This is described in this PDF, Joining groups online with Beacon.
How does a member update their personal details?	This is described in this PDF, Updating your personal details with Beacon.
What does a group leader need to know about Beacon?	If you are a Group Leader, you will have been given extra access to the data for your group so that you can contact them by email and attach files or links to the email through the Beacon system. As a Group leader you will be issued with a document when you are given access to the system which should help you to use the system but any questions could be sent by email to sdu3a.beacon@gmail.com or contact the Group Coordinator. Some committee members of Settle District u3a will also have been given access to some of the data depending on their role.