AN ALCOHOLICS Anonymous group is starting up in Tea Gardens with its first meeting set to take place at the end of the month.
A spokesman from Alcoholics Anonymous in the Newcastle district said he was contacted by a woman in Tea Gardens who had identified the need for one in the area.
"There's a surprising number of people in any region with alcohol problems," he said.
The inaugural meeting has been organised for Friday, June 29 at 8pm in the Uniting Church Hall in Myall Street. The meetings are then planned to continue on a weekly basis.
The group is not affiliated with any other groups or government organisations and is self funded by members. The meetings are run by sober alcoholic volunteers.
The spokesman said the meeting was not just for alcoholics but anyone who wanted to learn more about the disease of alcoholism or thought they may have an alcohol problem.
He said two of the main signs you may be alcoholic were if you could not stop after picking up your first drink and secondly if you could not guarantee your behaviour after your first drink.
He described the group as very welcoming and a place to share experience, strength and hope.
Anyone in need of support can contact the 24 hour local helpline on 4964 1555 or the hotline on 1300 2222.