In the first year since its launch, more than 100,000 people have used GambleAware’s self-assessment online tool.
National Gambling Helpline, a charity that commissions treatment and prevention services, reported 28,000 individuals, or one-fourth of them, sought additional support through a qualified advisor.
The self-assessment feature of GambleAware presents users with a list of statements. The tool asks users to rate how well each statement describes their gambling behavior on a 1-10 scale.
GambleAware stated that the increase in uptake is due to the increasing number of people who are accessing support and treatment through the National Gambling Support Network. The increase in extended early intervention is 20%.
“The figures released today underscore the critical role third-sector services play as part of a whole-system-approach to addressing gambling harms,” said Zoe Osmond, CEO of GambleAware.
As we prepare for the announcement of the new structure by the government, it is essential that a prevention-led strategy be prioritised. This includes increased investments in free and confidential support services as well as educational initiatives, campaigns for public health, and digital resources. These allow us to tailor our approach for communities throughout Great Britain.
Campaign to combat gambling harms is a success
In April 2023 the tool will be available, along with GambleAware’s campaign “Let’s open up about gambling”.
As part of an effort to remove barriers, the campaign was seen by tens and millions of people. Over 50% of those who took part in the campaign went on to do something to stop gambling harm.
The charity said the past year has also seen a record 24% rise in calls to the GambleAware-commissioned National Gambling Helpline. This, it said, indicates a growing need for an integrated response to the impacts of gambling in society.
GambleAware now has more than 8 000 professionals trained in different fields to help those experiencing harm from gambling.
GambleAware has defended itself against a complaint made by Good Law Project to the Charity Commission. According to the non-profit organization, GambleAware trustees do not meet their charity’s goals of providing enough gambling harm education.
The complaint claims that GambleAware, with its connections to industry and “reliance on funding from industry”, has fuelled this.
Osmond stated that GambleAware was “robustly” independent of the gambling industry.
