What do you think about the mumsnet books concept?

[Enid]

I feel odd about it but I'm not sure why.

As it stands, I don't use the discounts much, but if other companies joined the list then I might.

Bit off subject this, but could mumsnet approach Boden clothing?

I'm not a huge Boden fan, because I think their clothing is overpriced, but the company seems to be very popular judging by the numbers of people I see wearing Boden clothing.

If Boden offered a 10% discount ONLY to mumsnet subscribers, on top of any other discounts they offer, I think that would be a very attractive incentive.

I may be wrong monkey, but I think that particular email was only seny to subscribers. I did consider telling more people when I read it, but seeing my addicts characteristics (baggy eyes, keyboarder's fingers) seems to put them off

I would have thought you could offer automatic prize draw entry to subscribers though as non-subscribers, in theory, could also get the same "benefit" by referring a friend or whatever.

Personally, I don't think the discounts would be enough of an incentive to subscibers to justify the VAT costs.

The NCT have similar constraints about what they can and can not offer in return for membership without paying VAT on the membership fees.

SueW, I'm sure no one wants to make you or anyone else feel guilty. Of course there are people who can't afford to subscribe which is why it's voluntary. Unfortuntely there are also people who think "why should I?" and the more of those who can be persuaded to subscibe means that Mumsnet is more likely to be here for everyone.

SueW, sorry to hear your DH's job prospects have been so up and down. Times are certainly tough aren't they?. I have lost count of the number of people I know in London who have lost their jobs.

SueW, I am so sorry to hear that. I thought he was still working overseas. Hope something suitable comes up soon.

There are VAT officers on this site!!

I have subscribed to Mumsnet but didn't donate very much as DH's work can be all over the place at times but I had thought that I would like to top it up with another small donation before next July which is when I assume the initial subscription is up so to speak. Can this be done? Is it just a case of following the original procedure?

I can understand why there are so many subscribers without being payers. Most of them are probably like me, in that they joined to enter a competition, and then bugg**ed off again. I do this to so many sites, through theprizefinder.com, but stayed with Mumsnet, as it was so good. I feel a bit guilty now for the other sites...

Come on all you ideas people and journalists, think of some good ways to promote Mumsnet. I would, except I am still suffering from pregnancy brain, so it's probably not a good idea! As a good example, the other day, I put the orange juice in the glasses cupboard instead of back in the fridge!

Hi, I have been feeling guilty cos I haven't been a v good mumsnetter of late and its to do with the subscription that I can't afford yet. Therefore I feel guilty using it for all your advice when I know the depth of feeling (and one that I agree with) that runs through this topic. I really want to pay something but I'm still scraping by on benefits and using my parents computer (v nice of them I know.) I have some work but its not regular pay and I have been studying too. I'm aware that I need to prioritise my money in the run up to dd's birthday and xmas so was hoping to pay in the new year with a bit of 'christmas money' I'll hopefully get. However that is usually used to pay off my visa bill for everyone else's presents I bought - crazy! But I'll happily take your views on this, should I not use/keep limiting my access to mumsnet til I'm paid up? I've been here for 18months or so and would hate it to go for good because of people like me...

No, No, No! All of you who can't afford to subscribe, of COURSE you shouldn't limit your time here. I think mumsnet desperately want to avoid a compulsory subscription, they've said something like "advice shouldn't only be available to those that can afford it" and I agree. So please stay and don't feel guilty, we can all only give what we can manage.

You've put it perfectly, Batters. Don't leave us, gals.

Lizzer don't be so bloody ridiculous. There is absolutley no feeling that people shouldn't be using Mumsnet if they don't subscribe because they can't afford to. I think that Mumsnet really needs to get through to people who either don't realise that the site needs subscribers, or those who think (completly incorrectly) that subscribing would just be putting money into Justine, Carrie and Rachels pockets.

I thought that was the point of being able to not have your name on the list of subscribers, precisely to stop feelings that a subscription is compulsory and to prevent any sort of feelings of guilt or a witchhunt by those who can't afford to pay - you don't need to advertise that you have subscribed, so you don't need to feel guilty if you can't afford to. Not that I'm accusing anyone of witchhunting

agree, agree, don't stop posting etc just because things are tight financially atm. that's the whole point of a voluntary subscription. re list of subscribers - it will be a shame if it makes those who can't afford it feel guilty, but doesn't provide a gentle nudge to those with, erm shall we say, deep pockets and short arms!

have to say though, i'm with willow2, don't think there are that many regulars, i'm sure a lot of the 8,000 subscribers come for the competitions.

Didn't realise they were short. I did pay a small amount as it was all I could afford at the time. I have always meant to add another amount, so maybe I shall do that now.

I do hope it doesn't wind down, I NEED it! Lizzer - are you coming to Preston soon? I need a friend too!

Ok point taken, I admit to being a bit dramatic about it all, sorry! I can see rationally that it won't make difference if I can't afford it. Just left with the feeling that I SHOULD be able to afford it. Its the feeling of wanting to help and not being able to - plus not wanting to put anyones' backs up, which you've all said isn't the case, so thanks

Yes Rhubarb I'll email you with news of a trip soon

Lizzer,keep posting and don't be a ninny

For the record I would be delighted if sufficient funds were raise so that some money could go into Justine, Carrie and Rachel's pockets

Oh Yes so would I - I think they all deserve to be millionaires

Phew ... having read through this thread ... and after all the lovely messages that I have had after my problems this week I am pleased to 'come out'... I am no longer a lurker and I am now an official subscriber!