AA is not giving out money

With reference to your correspondent L Parker of Dawley and the mistaken information that Alcoholics Anonymous pay £13 per day to individuals for drink because they cannot get treatment.

I have been a member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 20-odd years and never heard of such a thing here, abroad or anywhere else.

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other.

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 achieve sobriety.

Anyone seeking help for a drinking problem can obtain help, free of charge, by phoning the national helpline on 0845 769 7555.

I am also a pensioner and get £119.50 per week basic state pension under the Government's minimum income guarantee. If your correspondent only gets £88 per week then they should contact the pension department.

I hope this letter will rectify any misunderstanding as to what Alcoholics Anonymous does and does not do. It most certainly does not fund anyone or anything.

Name & address supplied