The role of a Probation/Criminal Justice Service (CJSWS) Liaison Officer within Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) involves facilitating communication and collaboration between AA and professionals within the probation and criminal justice system. Here’s a summary of the key aspects of this role:

1. Resources and Education : Liaison Officers are provided with resources such as the Liaison Officers Pack: Probation/CJS, which includes essential AA literature like the Twelve Traditions and the AA Service Handbook. Liaison Officers should familiarize themselves with this material to effectively carry out their duties.
2. Co-operation Across AA : Liaison Officers are encouraged to work closely with AA colleagues in other service areas, such as Prison Liaison and Public Information. Collaboration across intergroup and regional boundaries may also be necessary, as offender management services often cover larger areas.
3. Budgeting and Expenses : Liaison Officers may be responsible for preparing annual budgets for service activities related to probation and criminal justice. These budgets should be prepared according to established procedures and may include expenses for travel, literature, and participation in events.
4. Setting Up Confirmation of Attendance System : Liaison Officers may be involved in implementing a confirmation of attendance system, also known as the “chit system,” to provide documentation of AA meeting attendance for individuals in the criminal justice system. This system operates within AA’s Traditions and ensures anonymity while confirming attendance.
5. Intergroup Probation/CJSWS Liaison Officer Responsibilities : At the intergroup level, Liaison Officers are elected to establish and maintain links with various organizations and professionals within the probation and criminal justice system. They report to intergroup meetings, maintain lists of contacts, attend regional workshops and seminars, and facilitate communication between intergroup and regional levels.
6. Building Relationships : Liaison Officers work to establish relationships with local offender management services, courts, police forces, solicitors’ organizations, and other relevant professionals. They may distribute AA literature, provide speakers for offender groups, and attend meetings to inform professionals about AA’s work and principles.
7. Supporting Offenders : Liaison Officers may assist in providing support to individuals within the criminal justice system who are seeking help for alcoholism. This may involve arranging for speakers, distributing literature, and sharing the experiences of AA members who have overcome similar challenges.

In summary, Probation/CJSWS Liaison Officers play a crucial role in fostering understanding and collaboration between AA and professionals in the probation and criminal justice system, ultimately aiming to support individuals struggling with alcoholism within these settings.