The internet is proving to the be the most popular source of help for young people seeking assistance for their drink problems.

In April, Alcoholics Anonymous volunteers started handling on-line requests for help from problem drinkers for the first time ever via the Fellowship's website (www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk) The on-line service was set up to complement the traditional AA telephone helpline (0845 769 7555), which operates nationally with local responders.

The first three months following launch of the new Internet service shows that the online audience is significantly younger than the traditional AA membership (According to a recent survey, 5% of AA members are under 25). Of the 10,500 people visiting the 'AA newcomers' section of the website every month, 3,500 (33%) people click through for the 'message for young people' information. Early results of the on-line experience would indicate that the Internet is providing a convenient access point to AA for young people. According to a recent survey, 5% of AA members are currently under 25.

Since the re-launch of the AA website in April more than 500 organisations have linked their websites to the Alcoholics Anonymous site, taking advantage of the full resources the Fellowship provides for problem drinkers.

Alcoholics Anonymous was established in the 1930's in America and arrived in Britain 55 years ago. There are now more than 3,500 AA meetings every week in England, Scotland and Wales.

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