GamCare cited the need for new avenues to support its members after disclosing a number of digital products.
This was achieved through the MyGamCare online portal. It is completely free and is intended to increase the support online for those who might be having trouble gambling.
MyGamCare is an online self-help site where users can set goals, access content that is personalized to them, track their moods, and receive resources to support and help them.
It can also be used to assist those who are struggling with gambling to manage their lives by helping them understand how their gambling is affecting their money, time, and relationships.
Zoe Osmond is the CEO of GambleAware. She said: “We are pleased to see the new MyGamCare services launched and hope it will prove to be a valuable resource for all who require it. Gambling harms anyone, as we know.
“This is why MyGamCare is so important because they offer free digital advice and information to anyone who is concerned about gambling or is suffering from harms related to gambling.”
The charity announced that it had received more than 3700 calls in January. This is an increase of 17 percent year-on-year. Advisors are hearing more that people are turning to gambling because of the rising cost of living.
GamCare also announced that GamCare’s helpline can now be accessed via WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. Early data shows that GamCare’s platform is most popular with individuals younger than 35.
“Almost four out of five people who used GamCare last year mentioned issues with online gambling. We know that the nature and practice of gambling has changed dramatically over the past ten years. GamCare can do more to reach those people when and where they are suffering,” stated Anna Hemmings CEO.
“With MyGamCare, along with our WhatsApp Messenger and Facebook Messenger capabilities, we hope to make it easier for people to access help faster and to find support in a way that suits them.
We know how hard it can be to take the first step and that many people may not feel comfortable talking about gambling. It is important to have the option for people to begin that journey in whatever way suits them best.
