GamCare Welcomes the New National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms

GamCare welcomes the new National Strategy to Reduce Gambling Harms, published today by the Gambling Commission.

As a charity which has played a key role for over 20 years in supporting and treating those struggling with the effects of problem gambling in England, Scotland and Wales, GamCare is delighted to contribute to the production of the new strategy.

Two million adults in the UK experience some form of harm from their gambling, including 340,000 classified as problem gamblers. The consequences for both the gambler and their loved ones can be harrowing.

GamCare currently operates 160+ treatment centers nationally, as well as providing online and telephone treatment and operating the National Gambling HelpLine, a free and confidential phone and web chat service which offers information, advice and support to anyone affected by gambling, including those concerned about a loved one.

Anna Hemmings, the CEO of GamCare, says: “We are proud to have participated in the formation of the new national strategy with the Gambling Commission. As a key provider of support and treatment for those affected by problem gambling, we welcome the step towards more coordinated efforts from education bodies, gambling operators and third sector organisations to tackle gambling-related harms. We are also delighted to see the steps proposed to expand our collective knowledge on gambling addictions through a data repository and research hub.

With better co-ordination and evaluation of national education, prevention and research initiatives alongside support and treatment services, we can ensure that those at risk or already struggling receive more effective care. GamCare looks forward to playing a vital role in delivering the strategy over the coming years.”

View the full strategy at http://www.reducinggamblingharms.org