Information for Prison Staff

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organisation or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Anonymity is a vital part of our philosophy, giving assurance and comfort to anyone seeking our help. All work undertaken by members of Alcoholics Anonymous is entirely voluntary. It is our aim to have access to all inmates, whether in the main prison or prison hospitals, to offer the Alcoholics Anonymous recovery programme through its membership.

Alcoholics Anonymous has been carrying its message into prison establishments since the late fifties; the cooperation and understanding from governors and prison staff have made this possible. Alcoholics Anonymous is involved in the majority of prison establishments throughout Great Britain. There are a number of services which are available to the inmate:

MEETINGS

The principal path to AA recovery where direct contact with other alcoholics offers guidance, support and encouragement.

VISITS

AA members are willing to visit those inmates unable to attend meetings.

PRISON POSTAL SERVICE

Where inmates may correspond with prison sponsors via our service address.

BEFORE RELEASE

The inmate attending AA meetings within the establishment during his/her sentence can be met on release where necessary, and arrangements can be made to take him/her along to an AA meeting - this encourages the inmate to attend AA on his/her release. (AA members are freely available to inform groups of inmates during their imprisonment on all matters relating to AA.)

SUPPORT FOR PRISON STAFF

AA members attend the establishment when requested to inform staff of what AA has to offer.

and Inform them that there is an AA meeting within the prison - day and time - procedure.
b AA literature is available.
c AA members will answer any questions relating to our programme of recovery that may be asked of them by the staff