1. Introduction

These Terms and Conditions govern the membership of The Association of Stoma Care Nurses UK (ASCN UK), a professional organisation supporting stoma care nurses across the United Kingdom. By applying for membership, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions, which are subject to periodic review and amendment by the ASCN UK Executive Committee.

2. Membership Categories

ASCN UK offers the following categories of membership:

• Full Member: A Full Member is a registered nurse practising within the specialist field of stoma care. Full Members shall have the right to vote, propose motions, hold office, and enjoy all other privileges of membership.
• Associate Member: An Associate Member is an individual with an interest in stoma care who supports the mission and objectives of ASCN UK, but who does not meet the criteria for Full Membership. Associate Members may access all member benefits, excluding voting rights, the ability to propose motions, and eligibility to hold office.

3. Membership Benefits

Members of ASCN UK are entitled to:

• Participate in the Association’s activities and professional community
• Receive newsletters and communications regarding industry news, education, and events
• Access professional guidance and resources
• Attend the ASCN UK Annual Conference (subject to separate registration) at a discounted rate
• Receive three complimentary issues of the BJN Stoma Care Supplement annually
• Engage in professional development opportunities
• Contribute to the advancement of best practice in stoma care nursing

4. Membership Fees

The annual membership fee is £30.00 for both Full and Associate Members. Fees are non-refundable and subject to change at the discretion of the ASCN UK Executive Committee. Any such changes will be communicated in advance.

5. Application for Membership 

Applications for membership must be made via the ASCN UK website. Acceptance of membership is at the discretion of the Executive Committee. ASCN UK reserves the right to verify eligibility for membership and may request supporting documentation where necessary.

6. Duration and Renewal

Membership is valid for 12 months from the date of payment. Members will be notified prior to the expiration of their membership and offered the opportunity to renew. Failure to renew will result in automatic termination of membership.

7. Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated:

• By non-renewal following the end of a membership period
• At the request of the member
• By ASCN UK, at its sole discretion, where a member is found to have breached these Terms and Conditions or acted in a manner detrimental to the Association

Membership must be terminated if a member no longer meets the requirements in item 2. A full member can transfer membership to become an associate member if their eligibility changes. Termination or change in membership must be notified to admin@ascnuk.org immediately.

Membership fees are paid for the year at the commencement of membership. No refunds, whether full or pro-rata, will be issued if membership is terminated during the membership year, either by the member or by ASCN UK. Fees may be refunded if a member is deemed ineligible upon initial registration.

8. Conduct and Responsibilities

Members are expected to:

• Uphold the mission and values of ASCN UK
• Conduct themselves in a professional and respectful manner in all ASCN UK-related activities
• Maintain confidentiality where appropriate
• Avoid any misuse of membership for personal or commercial gain inconsistent with the objectives of the Association

9. Data Protection

ASCN UK will handle members’ personal information in accordance with current data protection legislation. By joining ASCN UK, members consent to the use of their data for membership management and communication purposes. Further details are available in our Privacy Policy (https://ascnuk.org/privacy-statement/).

10. Amendments to Terms

ASCN UK reserves the right to amend these Terms and Conditions. Members will be notified of any significant changes via email or the ASCN UK website.