Anniversary of the National Gambling Support Network
The National Gambling Support Network is celebrating its one-year anniversary, highlighting the thousands of people it has supported and the short waiting times for treatment. The network encourages anyone struggling with gambling to reach out for free and confidential help.
Quick Access to Treatment
New figures from the GambleAware-commissioned National Gambling Support Network reveal that people seeking support were offered a treatment session in just three and a half days on average. This fast access to treatment is crucial for those in need.
Highest Monthly Level of Calls
In January 2024, the National Gambling Support Network helpline received the highest number of calls on record. This demonstrates the increasing need for support and the effectiveness of the network in providing assistance.
Since April 2023, over 28,000 individuals have been supported through the National Gambling Support Network helpline and local service providers. The network offers various forms of support, including brief interventions and one-to-one counseling, to address gambling-related harm.
Between October and December 2023, people seeking support received treatment sessions within an average of three and a half days. Additionally, organizations within the National Gambling Support Network responded to those seeking treatment in just 1.3 days on average in the last three months of 2023.
The National Gambling Support Network helpline recorded 4,816 calls and online chats in January 2024, surpassing all previous monthly records. This data indicates a growing demand for support services.
Furthermore, a recent YouGov survey of over 5,000 participants revealed that weekly support sessions with trained professionals were considered an effective way to reduce gambling harms by two-thirds of respondents. Tools to block access to gambling websites and speaking to family members were also seen as helpful strategies.
Testimonials from individuals who have benefitted from the National Gambling Support Network highlight the positive impact of accessing support services. By seeking help, these individuals were able to understand their relationship with gambling and work towards recovery.
The Chief Commissioning Officer for GambleAware, Anna Hargrave, emphasizes that the National Gambling Support Network plays a vital role in preventing gambling-related harm. The network ensures easy access to treatment and support throughout Great Britain.
Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew acknowledges the importance of seeking help when struggling with gambling. The increase in calls to the National Gambling Support Network helpline underscores the need for effective support systems to prevent harm.
In the white paper published last year, the government introduced various measures to prevent gambling harms, including stake limits for online slot games and increased funding for research, prevention, and treatment through a levy on gambling companies.