At present we have 60 groups with 808 members and 51 Associate members There are two kinds of members: Group Members, who belong to local Ascent groups. Their subscription is paid into the group whose leader forwards the annual subscription to the National Secretary in January of each year. The Journals are sent out to the group leaders for distribution among its members. Homebased members belong to a group but may be unable to attend for various reasons. They pay their subscription into the group who ensures that they receive each issue of the Journal. Click on the pictures to enlarge them Associate Members do not belong to a group but may participate fully in every other way. They pay their subscription direct and receive their own copy of each issue of the Journal by post. The subscription is kept as low as possible and is currently £8.00 per year, but for couples living at the same address it is £10.00 per year. Each region is represented on the National Planning Team that meets twice a year to plan national events and is responsible for the development of the Movement in this country. Regional teams plan events in their own regions or jointly with neighbours. The Right-Reverend Howard Tripp V.G., Auxiliary Bishop of Southwark, who has been a constant source of support and encouragement throughout the development of the Movement in this country, consented in 1997 to become Episcopal Adviser to the Movement. The Ascent Movement is a member of the National Council for Lay Associations (NCLA) which is a consultative body to the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales. In addition The Ascent Movement is in active communication with Caritas-social action, The Christian Council on Ageing and Help the Aged.