GamCare Annual Report Indicates Record-Breaking Interactions on the Helpline

GamCare, the UK's National Gambling Helpline, released its annual reports, indicating an unprecedented increase in gambling help demand. The hotline responded to a staggering 55,228 calls and online chats in the 2023-24 period, reflecting a 25% increase compared to 2022-23.

This surge underscores the growing prevalence of gambling-related issues and the criticalness of prevention and treatment services amid regulatory reform uncertainty. The report indicated GamCare's continued commitment to helping at-risk individuals.

Easily Accessible Treatment

Of the received contacts, 74% - 41,070 calls and chats – resulted in supportive intervention, providing guidance on navigating structured treatment services. GamCare reported that individuals who completed the treatment showcased significant improvements that reduced gambling-related challenges.

The charity provided over 9,100 free treatment sessions during the year, with an average 2.1-day waiting period from contact to service provision. Such efficiency highlights the crucial role GamCare plays in offering urgent care. The Office of Health Improvement and Disparities published a report in March 2024, revealing that 57% of individuals getting gambling-related harm treatment used GamCare as a gateway to recovery.

GamCare Board's Executive Chair, Margot Daly, applauded the organization's achievements: "Throughout a challenging year and with heightened demand for our services, GamCare's staff have got on with the job of preventing harm where possible and treating harm when necessary."

Targeted Education Programs

On top of its hotline, GamCare addressed the needs of vulnerable individuals like women, young adults, and the criminal justice system victims with targeted programs. It trained 10,344 professionals on spotting gambling harm signs and offering necessary referrals. Also, 53,324 children, young individuals, and parents received awareness and prevention education.

The Women's Programme is a highlight of the report. The organization, in partnership with organizations like Refuge, trained 3,813 professionals to recognize and address gambling harm among women. By tailoring intervention programs for specific demographics, GamCare ensures no group goes unnoticed.

Broader Industry Changes

GamCare's commendable endeavors align with significant regulatory changes in the gambling industry, inspired by the UK's government's white paper on gambling reform. Nevertheless, the charity reaffirms its commitment to offering free and accessible support and treatment to gambling-related harm victims.

"As we look ahead to how the future of the gambling harm sector is shaped, we are committed to working proactively with the NHS and other partners and commissioners to ensure that people are continually able to receive the right support at the right time,” assured Daly.