Alcoholics Anonymous GuernseyDo you want help with a drinking problem?
It’s never too early and it’s never too late to learn how the fellowship of AA can help.
It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been drinking, what you’ve been drinking, or even how much. It’s what drinking does to you that counts. If your drinking is causing problems, you might want to do something about it.
Going to an AA meeting is simple. You can find where and when there’s a meeting convenient for you and then just turn up. That’s it. There’s no signing in, no money to pay, no appointment to make. There are no intrusive questions, no obligations. Your privacy and anonymity will be respected. You can go to different meetings as often or as little as you wish.
If that still sounds a bit daunting, call the Helpline and we'll arrange to meet you at home or another place of your choosing to talk things over.
If alcohol is costing you more than money, then call or text us today in complete confidence.
Call or text 07781 151682
Email aa_guernsey@cwgsy.net
We're here to help
A newcomer asks...
Most of us had no idea what to expect of our first meeting. For some of us the idea was quite scary, so we were greatly relieved to find that our fears were groundless. AA meetings are relaxed, friendly and supportive.
Here are some issues a lot of us worried about before coming to our first AA meeting.
What if I see someone I know?
They will be there for the same reason you are. AA does not disclose your identity to outsiders or even to others inside our fellowship. We respect the anonymity of people we see at meetings. That’s why we call ourselves Alcoholics Anonymous.
Will I be asked a lot of questions?
No. AA meetings are very informal. Just take a seat and listen to the stories members will tell about their drinking and their recovery. We are not professional therapists. Our only qualification for helping others is that we have stopped drinking ourselves. You can talk to people if you want to or just keep to yourself until you feel more comfortable.
Do I have to "sign up"?
No. There’s nothing to sign. You are an AA member if and when you say you are. The only requirement for AA membership is a desire to stop drinking (and many of us were not entirely convinced about that when we first approached AA). AA does not keep membership files or attendance records. You do not have to reveal anything about yourself. No one will bother you if you don’t want to come back.
How much will it cost?
Nothing. There is no charge for attending an AA meeting. A collection is taken at the end of each meeting to cover the costs of renting the room, providing refreshments, and other expenses. Only AA members can contribute. There’s no obligation but most people put in a pound or two.
Do I have to get up and speak in front of people?
No. The meeting will consist of members talking about what drinking did to their lives and personalities, what actions they took to help themselves, and how they are living their lives today. You may want to speak but it’s quite okay if you don’t want to — in fact we suggest that newcomers just listen to start with, rather than become distracted by worrying about what to say.
Is AA a religious organisation?
No. Some AA meetings are held in church halls but that’s only because they’re convenient and affordable venues. AA groups are in no way affiliated with the churches or other organisations whose meeting rooms we rent. While the AA program has a spiritual basis, what that means is left up to the individual to decide. AA works for people of all shades of belief or non-belief.
Can I bring a friend?
Meetings are generally intended for alcoholics and for those with an alcohol problem who have a desire to stop drinking. However, two meetings each week (Friday evening and Sunday morning) are 'open' to non-alcoholic guests, for example a supportive friend or family member.
Who goes to AA meetings?
You’ll find all sorts of people at AA meetings. Alcoholism is an illness that doesn’t discriminate, so expect to see people from all walks of life. But we all have one thing in common. We are men and women who have lost the ability to control our drinking and have found ourselves in various sorts of trouble as a result. We attempt, most of us successfully, to live life to the full without alcohol. For this we need the help and support of other alcoholics in AA.
AA works! Member stories show how 
From despair to contentment. These personal stories, by Guernsey AA members, tell what it was like, what it is like now, and how they found contentment and a new freedom.
