We know how much people value the Journal. But did you know that each year it costs our small charity over £18,000 to print and post copies to our subscribers?
You may recall, in our Summer 24 Journal and October 24 e-news, that we asked people to switch to digital if they can. A huge thank you to those who did.
But printing and postage costs continue to rise. So, as of 1 April 25, new subscribers will only be offered the Journal digitally.
Why are people being asked to receive the Journal digitally?
We’ve worked hard to cut our expenditure but, as most charities are finding, it is a difficult time to raise funds, and advertising income simply isn’t covering the Journal’s cost. Also, offering the Journal digitally significantly reduces our environmental impact.
How do people access the digital version?
It’s easy! People receive an email, linking them through to each new edition. We use ‘flip’ technology, which means no special software is required. You can read it on any internet-connected device including smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers.
I currently receive a copy by post and don’t want to switch. Can I continue to do so?
If you already receive your Journal by post then you will continue to do so, although we’d like as many people as possible to try reading the digital copy. If you’re happy to switch now, then please contact the office.
We are introducing the ‘digital only’ option for NEW subscribers.
Later this year, however, we may consider introducing an annual fee if people want to continue receiving a printed copy. We’ll be reviewing this later and will be in touch with more details then.
Why did the UA reduce membership fees to zero, if it is considering introducing a fee to receive the Journal?
We want our services to be available for everyone with a urinary diversion. The membership fee was seen as a barrier to people being able to engage and benefit from our services. We have already seen a subsequent increase in membership, which is great news!
Are there any benefits to receiving the Journal digitally?
Yes, there are lots of benefits to receiving the Journal digitally.
- Embedded links: With the digital version, you’ll be able to click on link, making it super easy to find related further information on our website.
- Environmental impact: Help us reduce paper waste and support a more sustainable future.
- Receive it faster: The digital Journal is much quicker to send, so you’ll be able to read the very latest news a week or two before those waiting for the post.
- Support Urostomy Association: With the savings, we’ll be able to help pay for other much-needed support projects.
Will I be able to print off articles I want to keep?
Yes – Each issue will also be available for download as a PDF, so you can print out the whole Journal or individual pages, as you prefer.
What if I want to refer back to an old edition?
You can find Journals from the last two years online here.
Will the UA still be sending the Journal out in patient packs?
Yes, we will still be including printed copies of the Journal in the patient information packs we send to stoma care departments and hand out at open days.
Who can I talk to about these changes?
If you’d like to discuss these changes, please contact us.
