Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi,
What are peoples thougts on the end of the Paper version of the Aspergers United Magazine?
I find it a little odd hta the announcement was made without FIRST seeking the opnions oof the readers. There is a questionaire included but he announcement is definate that ther will no longer be a Paper version. The next edition will be he final one and will sibsequently be only available online.
It is a fact that Adults with Asperegers have the least of all services fro people on the Spectrum. So why make savings there? maybe because other people like myself with Aspergers will not kick up enough fuss for anyone to care. It is an easy option. We will just go on struggling through life. Just about coping, living, maybe unhappy and then die. We often don't look any different and nobody cares.
I am guessing that that many magazines probably endup Proffessionals postboxes and never get read. For many though it is an important and valid publication. Recieving it really matters. For me it is a thing that makes me feel like I exist.
I really do struggle to talk with people or communicate in general. i don't really have a voice. I can't do it. I am sure others are the same and will not be head because also by their nature they cannot communicate what would be needed to keep the paper version of Aspergers United in print. It a little like telling someone in a wheelchair to use the stairs.
I don't understand why proffessonals cannot be charged for the publication or that the paper quality is reduced (making the item lighter) or making the publication a smaller A5 format which would reduce postage costs too. Or making it totally black and white. Or having a limit on the number of words per article. Or maybe post all the copies to a lcal office and let subscribers collect there copy locally. But NO, none of these things have been tried......instead it is just been stopped.
I think that it is fundametally wrong that the anouncement to stop the Paper version was made before first seeking feedback or considering savings that would enable it to be run on a cheaper footing.
NAS ia a charity. What percentage of donations is spent on Adult Aspergers? What percentage of cuts affects adults with Asergers? I would really like to see these figures so that I could make a true evaluation of the decisions to make the 'Savings' gained by the stopping of the Paper version of Aspergers United.
I get the paper copy of the magazine, and quite look forward to reading it. It has already proved helpful. I am newly diagnosed with ASD after years and years of rejection, exclusion, suffering and hardship.
If the magazine is definitely NOT going to be available in paper form anymore - despite a so-called consultation - then I am disappointed. But, to be very candid, not at all surprised.
My main reasons for maintaining this are;
1. The NAS website is not the easiest to navigate, and can be trying for some people; and
2. After signing up to the forum and posting an introductory thread, I received not a single reply or welcome - not even from a member of staff or Admin.
How much regard is there for ASD here then? Website not the easiest to use, no reply or welcome foe some new members, and the paper copy of the magazine being discontinued too.
Impressive.
I agree about the website/forum, I came back here, as after the new look site things seemed all over the place, only thing I can't see a box at the end of the threads. I try and reply to a new member even if it's a hello and welcome. AS for AU it would be good to have the option of either a paper copy or an online one!!!
How many people employed by the NAS, or who have responsibility for running projects, the forum, making decisions on Asperger United etc, have ASD themselves? How many people with ASD have any real or direct input in management and policy decisions?
I am disappointed by what I have encountered so far.
Thanks Holly, will do. I have have done, lol, it was lovely speaking to you on the phone, a profitable call for all concerned, I would say.
Hi Diddy D
Thanks for your comments. I have passed on your feedback to the Asperger United team!
All the best to you,
Holly - Moderator
Hi Hendrow
If you would like to receive back copies of Asperger United, you can contact the Supporter Care team on 0808 800 1050 or via email on supportercare@nas.org.uk.
Thanks,
Where do I get one of these magazines and back issues if possible? Tactile the paper touch is important.
Hi Holly
Thanks for replying. I hope the paper copy of Asperger United will remain. Not everyone has access to the internet, or likes reading stuff online. A paper copy should always be available for those that want one. To me it is taking into consideration the differing needs and wishes of people with ASD.