ALCOHOLICS Anonymous is holding an online public information event this evening for members and newcomers across Northern Ireland.
Speakers will include representatives from the medical profession, AA members themselves and relatives from the Al-Anon family group.
The 'You're Not Alone' Zoom event opens at 7.30pm, with a start time of 8pm.
While a small number of AA group meetings have opened as lockdown restrictions ease - while adhering strictly to social distancing guidelines - many members say they prefer to conduct remote meetings, especially for those more at risk.
"There is a tendency to retain Zoom as an option for older and more vulnerable members, as groups in the main are cautious and very aware that the virus has not gone away," one long-standing representative said.
There are 220 AA groups across the north, with some holding meetings twice a day up until the March shut-down.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of the pandemic on people struggling with addiction and an AA helpline was introduced four months ago to help people access online meetings.
The organisation - which is run by volunteers and receives no government funding - allows groups of alcoholics meet regularly to share their experience and help support each other in their bid to quit drinking and stay sober.
One of the organisers said the remote sessions had been "really positive" but was aware of the "potentially devastating" impact of lockdown for alcoholics forced into self-isolation who cannot attend.
The meeting ID code for tonight is 85893599299.
The free national AA helpline - which is linked to the north's groups - is 0800 9177 650. The Belfast central office, 028 90351222, operates during office hours but all voicemails are followed up.
