E-friends@stammering.org

"The E-friends list has filled a large gap in allowing easy pressure free contact with fellow sufferers. It will soon become one of the main bedrocks of the BSA"
Dave, Ayrshire, Scotland.

What is E-friends?

The aim of E-friends is to provide a means for people whose lives are affected by stammering to make contact with each other for friendship and support, and to do this via the medium of email. Many people find it easier to explore feelings associated with stammering through this medium, rather than face-to-face.

How does it work?

New E-friends members are asked to provide a few details about themselves (interests etc.) to act as an introduction to others. In return, new members receive a list containing the profiles of all existing members. New members are then free to introduce themselves to anybody on the list by email.

At any one time, there are generally about 60 members in the list. To ensure that the membership list stays active, all members will be asked to renew their membership every 12 months.

Who is it for?

E-friends complements other social contact schemes utilised by BSA members. While there are many advantages to meeting at socials or via telephone, some people find these methods difficult because of schedules, locations or comfort levels.

Most E-friends members belong to the BSA and live in the UK. However, BSA membership is not required and members live in all parts of the globe. When making friends by email, distance is no barrier and can actually make for more interesting email exchanges.

How can I join E-friends?

The only qualification needed to join E-friends is access to email over the internet. Anybody who would like more information about joining should send an email to:
E-friends@stammering.org

Correct use of E-friends

As with any online communication, users should be wary about exchanges with strangers. Participants are asked to treat fellow members of this scheme with respect in terms of content and frequency of emails. If any member is in receipt of emails that they find offensive they should contact the organizer with details of the problem. (E-friends@stammering.org). The BSA reserves the right to exclude from the scheme any person found to be abusing it and to publicize that exclusion to current members of the scheme. The exchange of private details such as telephone numbers or addresses, or personal or online meetings, can only be permitted when both parties are over 18.

Last updated: July 2008