E-friends

As from December 2010, it has been decided to put the E-friends scheme on hold for the time being. At present it is therefore not being run. Interest in the scheme has slowed, perhaps because there are now other ways to meet people on-line - including BSA's Facebook page. Many thanks to BSA volunteer David Morris who started the scheme back in 2002 and has run it since then. We know his work has been much appreciated.

Description of the scheme (archive):

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?

E-friends is currently not being run - see message above.

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. 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 2010