GamCare’s latest Annual Report covering the period up to March 2024, reveals major accomplishments in a fast-changing field of gambling harm prevention and treatment. 

55,228 National Gambling Helpline Interactions Signal Increased Need for Gambling Support

The National Gambling Helpline, a key part of the charity’s offerings, saw a record 55,228 interactions via phone calls and online chats — marking a 25% increase from the previous year. This milestone points to a rising need for help among people struggling with gambling-related issues.

More than 74% of these interactions were supportive interventions giving initial advice and when needed – referrals to treatment services. GamCare made sure care was quick and easy to get, with an average wait time of just 2.1 days from referral to treatment. Its organized treatment programs showed that 87% of people finished their plans, with clear drops in stress and financial troubles.

A report from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities highlighted how crucial GamCare’s work is. It found that 57% of people getting treatment came through the helpline. This shows how the helpline plays a key role in helping people start structured care.

GamCare put effort into preventative education reaching out to more than 53,000 young people and their families through targeted workshops. They also focused on specific programs to tackle gambling harm among women and people in the criminal justice system. By working with groups like Refuge, the Women’s Programme trained over 3,800 professionals to spot gender-specific risks linked to gambling.

GamCare kept coming up with new digital solutions, rolling out the EmpowerMe tool, a self-guided support platform that aims to help users control their gambling habits on their own. On top of that, the charity stayed active in the National Gambling Support Network providing more than 9,000 treatment sessions across the country.

Considering these achievements, Margot Daly, who chairs GamCare’s Board, stated: 

“I would like to thank and pay tribute to our frontline staff who provide 24/7 support for all those at risk or in distress. I also want to thank GamCare’s senior executive team who have steered GamCare through a period of sustained change, and to my fellow trustees for their guidance, unwavering support and the time each has dedicated to ensuring that the charity stays on course and on mission.”

In the future, the charity aims to strengthen its partnerships with the NHS and other key players to improve access to quick and effective help. GamCare also intends to boost its community outreach and prevention efforts to tackle the root causes that lead to gambling harm.