GambleAware data shows quick turnaround for support practices

GambleAware released a new data set in which it analyzed the quickness of the turnaround when offering treatment to callers. According to the organization, people who reached out for professional help between October and December 2023 received a treatment session with a trained specialist in 3.5 days on average, indicating the quickness and dependability of the process.

This comes amid news that the National Gambling Helpline has also received another record-setting number in January 2024 with 4,816 calls and chats. Data from the helpline also shows that 28,175 people with a suspected gambling problem received help in the form of a conversation of at least 20 minutes since April 2023, demonstrating that awareness for problem gambling treatment options is growing among consumers.

Part of these efforts run through the National Gambling Support Network, which is commissioned by GambleAware, and which reunites 11 organizations in Great Britain that specifically deal with and address the issues stemming from problem gambling.

Among the resources available to people with a gambling problem are residential treatment, one-on-one support, behavioral therapy, and more, all of which are designed based on an evidence-based approach and seek to mitigate the harm that gamblers experience in the country.

Commenting on this, GambleAware Chief Commissioning Officer Anna Hargrave said that the Support Network seeks to intervene promptly to prevent further escalation of problem gambling, and also hailed the role of third parties that participate in the project.

"These essential third-sector providers play a vital role for people across the country, and we look forward to continuing to share this expertise and experience alongside the NHS under the new system once a levy is introduced," Hargrave said.

She was joined by Gambling Minister Stuart Andrew who also commented on the results and joined GambleAware to note that speaking to someone is an important part of one’s journey towards recovery and people’s ability to stop sliding further into problem gambling, a trend perhaps best reflected by the UK Gambling Commission's latest corporate strategy.

"The increase in calls to the National Gambling Helpline shows the importance of getting the right help in place for those who may be suffering", Andrew said. Andrew noted that the government as well has been focusing on developing tools and practices that help prevent problem gambling and harmful practices before they occur.

GambleAware remains committed to tackling gambling harm in all of its farms by deploying meaningful and impactful practices. The newly released data builds on a previous update by GambleAware that indicated a growing interest in self-assessment testing.

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