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  1. Why is the magazine transitioning to a digital-only format?

Sadly, much like all other charities at the moment, we are having to keep a very close eye on our finances. Unfortunately, last year was a tricky year for us, as our expenditure far exceeded our income, and we cannot risk another similar year in 2025. This decision will mean we can save significantly on print and postage costs, which will mean safeguarding Tidings and the charity’s future beyond 2025. 

Other drivers for our decision have been to reduce our environmental impact and to also be able to deliver content more efficiently. Going digital allows us to offer enhanced features like interactive content, quicker distribution, and better access to archived issues. 

  1. When will the last printed issue be released?

If we have your email address on file, you will have received your last printed edition in November 2024. From March 2025 onwards, you will now receive your Tidings magazine direct to your email. If we don’t yet have your email address, you’ll continue to receive a hardcopy for the time being, whilst we seek to update your details. 

We will still be providing hard copies to stoma care departments and our volunteer team, so you may still see a printed copy here and there. We want any new stoma patients to know we are there for them. Giving stoma patients the ability to still pick up and read a copy of Tidings in hospital waiting rooms is important.  

However, anyone new joining us who wishes to subscribe to Tidings will only be able to receive it digitally.  

  1. How can I access the digital version of the magazine?

Accessing the digital magazine is easy! Each new issue will be sent directly to your email with a link to view it online. You can also visit our website here: Tidings – Support magazine from Colostomy UK to view current and past issues. You’ll also receive your copy earlier than those who are still on hard copy subscription.  

No special software is required to read the magazine. You can read it on any device with internet access, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers. We recommend using a modern web browser like Chrome, Safari, or Firefox for the best experience. 

  1. I don’t want to switch to digital, can I pay to receive a hard copy?

We’d like as many people as possible to give the digital copy a try. Later this year, if our audience is telling us that their printed copy is missed, then we may consider introducing an annual fee so people can pay to receive a printed copy in the post. We’ll be reviewing this later in 2025 and will be in touch with more details then. 

  1. Will I be able to print the magazine myself?

Yes – Each issue will also be available for download as a PDF, so you can print it at home if you prefer a hard copy of specific sections or articles.   

  1. I don’t know if you have my email address on file, but I want to receive my magazine digitally. How can I update my contact information?

Please visit Stay in Touch | Colostomy UK to provide your up to date details and to subscribe to digital Tidings. This will ensure you receive each digital copy to your inbox. Alternatively, you can email us at hello@colostomyuk.org or give us a call during between 10am and 4pm on our admin line 0118 939 1537. 

We are expecting to be busy during this period whilst we manage correspondence with all of our Tidings recipients, so please bear with us if we are slower to respond than normal. 

  1. What are the benefits of the digital magazine compared to the printed version?

The digital version of our magazine offers several new benefits: 

  • Immediate Access: No more waiting for the post to arrive; enjoy each issue a week or two before it is released as a hardcopy. 
  • Interactive Features: Access embedded links 
  • Environmental Impact: By going digital, we’re reducing paper waste and supporting a more sustainable future. 
  • Archive Access: Easily revisit past issues at any time. 
  • Support Colostomy UK: We’ll be able to reinvest the money saved from printing and posting the magazine into the production of Tidings and into other much needed support projects. 

  1. How do I unsubscribe from the digital magazine if I no longer wish to receive it?

If you’d like to unsubscribe from the magazine, click the “Unsubscribe” link at the bottom of any email from us regarding Tidings.   

Alternatively contact our team directly at hello@colostomyuk.org or 0118 939 1537 and ask to be removed from the mailing list. 

  1. How do I talk to someone about these changes?

If you’d like to discuss these changes, please call our admin line on 0118 939 1537 between 10am – 4pm.  

We kindly ask you do not call our helpline number manned by our volunteers, as this is only for practical and emotional stoma support, and they won’t be able to help you. 

 

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