GambleAware to Provide Peer Support for Those Affected by Gambling Harm in 2024
People seeking support for gambling harm will soon have the option to consult with individuals who have lived experience, thanks to a new service offered by GambleAware. This service will complement the existing free support services, such as general and financial counseling, online chat, and educational resources.
The Australian Centre for Social Innovation (TACSI) has been appointed by the Office of Responsible Gambling to develop the capacity of GambleAware providers to offer Peer Support starting from January 2024. Peer support is a non-clinical option for individuals seeking help for gambling harm and is an essential component of the GambleAware treatment and support model.
According to Alison Parkinson, the Director of the Office of Responsible Gambling, this service will ensure that individuals experiencing gambling harm have access to support that is appropriate for their needs and circumstances. The service will work closely with GambleAware providers to prepare them for offering peer support in early 2024, including assistance with recruiting and training peer support workers.
The service aims to enhance the capacity of GambleAware providers to deliver safe and effective peer support services, as well as to recruit and retain peer support workers within their local communities. This initiative will involve providing expert input to support recruitment and retention efforts, developing peer support resources for GambleAware providers, and facilitating ongoing professional development and training for peer support workers.
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