Recovery Support · UK Guide

Online AA Meetings in the UK

How to join Zoom AA meetings in the UK, what to expect, finding a meeting that works for you, and why virtual AA has become a permanent part of the recovery community.

Medically reviewed by Emily Clarke · April 2025
EC
Emily Clarke
BACP-Accredited Therapist & Recovery Advocate · 1 April 2025

How to Join an Online AA Meeting

Most UK online AA meetings use Zoom. Visit AA Great Britain's meeting finder and filter by “Online” to find video meetings. Note the Zoom Meeting ID and Password, download Zoom (free), and join a few minutes before the start time.

You can join with your camera off and simply listen — you do not need to speak. New attendees are always welcome.

What Happens in a Meeting

Most meetings last 60 minutes. Types include: open meetings (anyone welcome), closed meetings (for those who identify as alcoholic), speaker meetings, step studies, and topic meetings.

Types of Online Meetings

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online AA meetings as effective as in-person?+

Research found that online AA meetings produce comparable outcomes to in-person meetings for many participants, particularly in early recovery. Online meetings reduce barriers such as transport, social anxiety, and caring responsibilities. For people in remote areas, they can actually be more effective.

Do I have to turn my camera on?+

No. Many people attend with camera off, especially when new. You are also welcome to simply listen. You are never obligated to speak.

Is online AA free?+

Yes — all AA meetings are free. There is no membership fee. Some meetings pass a virtual donation link to cover Zoom costs, but this is entirely voluntary.

Can I attend AA anonymously?+

Yes. You can join using only your first name. AA's Eleventh Tradition protects anonymity. What is shared in a meeting stays in the meeting.

Other support options
AA meetings near youNA meetingsAl-Anon (families)SMART Recovery
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Written by
Emily Clarke
BACP-Accredited Therapist & Recovery Advocate
BSc Psychology, BACP Accredited Member, Lived Experience
Emily is a BACP-accredited therapist with her own lived experience of recovery from alcohol dependency. She specialises in dual diagnosis, trauma-informed care, and writing accessible content for people and families navigating addiction.
Published 1 April 2025
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