News
Local specialist help for problem gamblers in Essex
11 January 2010
From 11 January GamCare’s specialist one to one, face to face counselling service will be available to problem gamblers and their families throughout Essex.
Ian Semel of Essex Breakeven says:
“I am delighted that Breakeven, in partnership with GamCare, is able to extend this unique service farther afield to meet the needs of problem gamblers and their families in Essex. Our qualified and experienced counsellors have had the additional benefit of GamCare’s specific training to help them better understand the particular issues surrounding problem gambling.”
A GamCare client who has been helped by the service says:
“I do believe I have now kicked the habit and think a lot of it is down to Sally [counsellor], who has made me think deeply about myself and money. In our sessions, she made me realise that money doesn’t just come out of cash machines, how it affects my relationship with my family and how if I didn’t change my ways, my life would be very difficult and end up without any support.”
GamCare CEO Andy McLellan says:
“GamCare already enjoys a very successful and longstanding partnership with Breakeven and I’m particularly pleased at this latest development. GamCare’s national telephone and online helplines, and our online self-help forum are there for anyone concerned about their own or a family member’s gambling, but sometimes face to face counselling is what’s needed. I am delighted that Breakeven and GamCare together are now able to provide this vital service in Essex, where there has been no local provision. Anyone wanting help or advice should contact the GamCare HelpLine: 0845 6000 133 or go online at www.gamcare.org.uk.”
Press contact:
Ian Semel, Breakeven, 07890 264057, ian@breakeven.org.uk
Eileen Kinghan, GamCare, 020 7801 7003, eileen@gamcare.org.uk
NOTES FOR EDITORS
1. GamCare, established in 1997, is a registered charity and the leading national authority on the provision of counselling, advice and practical help for anyone experiencing or affected by problem gambling. GamCare delivers free counselling face to face and one to one at two locations in London, in Manchester, nationally through a network of partner agencies, and online. The charity trains its Partners in treating problem gambling and funds them to deliver support to anyone who needs it. For more information about GamCare and how it is funded, and for problem gambling statistics go to http://www.gamcare.org.uk/pages/faqs.html.
2. Anyone concerned about the amount of time or money that they or someone close to them is spending gambling can talk direct and in confidence to an adviser from 8am to midnight on the HelpLine 0845 6000 133 and its equivalent online, NetLine at www.gamcare.org.uk. GamCare’s approach is non-judgemental. Support is available one to one or through the forum and chat room. Advisers can give information about how to access the nearest counselling locally or contacts for other relevant services such as debt help.