'NASS was originally formed for the purpose of patient education. However, quite obviously, like any other organisation made up of like-minded people, there was always the objective of forming branches.

It quickly became apparent that members wanted to participate in supervised group physiotherapy during the evenings. We were, therefore, able to gradually persuade the physiotherapy departments in hospitals where there was a rheumatology service to keep their departments open one evening a week for supervised hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

The society, its members and supporting physiotherapists have gradually spread this idea throughout the country.

The patients who participate in this physiotherapy feel that they are benefited by the maintenance of their posture and mobility. They act as a group to encourage and influence new members and with them enjoy the benefit from the mutual support of sharing problems and anxieties.

Many of them also attach socialising to their branch activities. This is an important aspect for some people especially those whose old friendships have dwindled because of the severity of their condition due to not being able to keep up with their previous friends. The branches lead to a reduction in the sense of isolation and we know that people who are able to talk about their condition will do better than those who are unable to express their feelings.'

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1. Standard UK 12 Month Membership
2. *Renewal Standard UK 12 Month Membership
3. Overseas 12 Month Membership
4. *Renewal Overseas 12 Month Membership
5. Un waged U.K 12 Month Membership
6. *Renewal Un waged U.K 12 Month Membership
7. Life Membership

PRODUCES and distributes to hospitals and individuals on application a Guidebook for Patients.

PRODUCES twice a year an illustrated Newsletter containing articles on all aspects of the disease and the Society.

PRODUCES a cassette tape of a daily programme of physiotherapy exercises.

PRODUCES a video cassette on a daily physiotherapy programme.

FORMS self-help branch organisations around the country providing regular supervised physiotherapy.

ORGANISES and funds a large symposium for sufferers in a different city of the British Isles each year.

OFFERS advice and counselling services on related questions such as anti-inflammatory drugs, aids, life insurance, beds and chairs, car driving, and questions on inheritance, etc.

ALSO the Society takes an active role in educating the medical and para-medical professions in the disease and its treatment, it encourages and assists the formation of foreign sister societies represents members in pension and employment tribunals. Assists in the welfare of individual sufferers by providing emergency help when needed and encourages research into all aspects 0' the disease.