Write to ASP at:
Bush House
72 Prince Street
Bristol
BS1 4QD
Quick Q&A
This page contains short answers to the most frequently asked questions.
MEMBERSHIP
Who is eligible to apply for membership?
Anybody who fulfils the criteria for acceptance (see below) who is willing both to give and receive support
Can they apply directly or do they have to be referred?
Referral is not essential
What are the criteria for acceptance/rejection?
Potential members must demonstrate a commitment to sustainability in line with the membership, and to the policies, values and practices of membership (See Membership Agreement )
Can membership be withdrawn for any reason?
Yes, in the case of complaints of misconduct or misrepresentation
Membership is current as long as annual fees have been paid
Can I join for a trial period?
We believe it takes a year to properly trial the membership
COMMITMENT
How many days per year will I need to contribute to the running of ASP?
Currently, the maximum commitment is four. This is a provisional commitment, which may not be called upon, and cannot be rolled on to the following year.
What form will this contribution take?
You may be asked to help review other people’s work, run an event or arbitrate in a dispute. You will have the right to refuse.
Will this be paid or voluntary? (will I at least get my expenses paid i.e. travelling)
The time spent is not paid. Expenses may be covered subject to the availability of funding and the nature of the request.
What happens at the end of the year if I have not met these commitments?
Nothing happens unless you have been asked to commit, but have failed to do so without a reasonable explanation. In the event of consistent abuse of the system (ie. Taking benefits without offering them), it is likely that your membership will be rescinded, or a fine may be payable by mutual agreement.
WORK OPPORTUNITIES
Will ASP help me to find work in my chosen field?
Working opportunities are regularly created or signposted by members rather than ASP
Can I use the ASP logo & any supporting material?
The ASP brand can be used by members in support of their work, but cannot be used as the primary brand without express permission of the board in exceptional circumstances
Will ASP help me to find potential working partners from the membership?
The database is searchable, so you can plug in key words and a list of likely partners will appear.
QUALITY ASSESSMENT
How are practitioners ‘graded’?
They aren’t. The story of your experience is the only form of reference – it is not scaled.
How/ how often is this assessment reviewed?
Assessment is as frequent as the work that you bring through the Association.
How will my work be assessed…during and after each engagement?
By fellow members engaging with you in learning and assessment groups
PEER LEARNING AND RESEARCH
What research materials will I have access to through ASP?
Research materials are stored in Hubs (See The Hub ). The experience of ASP members in the field is searchable through learning reviews.
Is this part of the membership price or extra?
There are no additional fees for research materials
What opportunities will I get to share my work with others and vice versa?
All of the learning and work you do through the Association is a matter of public record. Deeply personal or commercially sensitive issues can be restricted to your personal learning account.
Is it compulsory to be part of a peer learning group, or voluntary?
Associates must produce two pieces of evidence during each year of membership that shows what they have learned. These pieces must include peer review from a learning buddy or group within membership.
