GamCare has announced that it will cease its Safer Gambling Standard operation at the end of the year as it couldn’t secure an appropriate new home for the service.
Nevertheless, the organisation noted that while it will no longer provide new Safer Gambling Standard services to the industry, it “remains committed to reducing gambling harm” and no other services, including the National Gambling Helpline, will be affected by the change.
Launched in 2019 and accredited by UKAS, the Safer Gambling Standard is an independent quality standard that evaluates gambling companies’ measures to protect people from gambling-related harm.
In December last year, GamCare’s board decided that the time was right for the Safer Gambling Standard to continue its work outside of the organisation under a different structure.
A strategic review was then initiated to find a new home for the Safer Gambling Standard.
However, despite in-depth discussions with many organisations, the organisation noted that it wasn’t able to secure an appropriate new home for these services.
As a result, GamCare will be ceasing its Safer Gambling operation by the end of 2024.
In a statement on its website, GamCare emphasised that it will continue to provide support to those who are struggling with gambling and those affected by someone else’s gambling.
“Our core focus at GamCare will continue to be the provision of high-quality, accessible support to the thousands of people who come through our services each year, both those who are struggling with gambling directly as well as those who are affected by someone else’s gambling.
“All of GamCare’s work is focused on the reduction of gambling harms, as it has been for 27 years.”
Last month, GamCare announced that it was offering additional confidential, supportive and non-judgmental spaces for people affected by gambling-related harms with the introduction of night chatrooms.
“The launch of night chatrooms is an essential step in providing around-the-clock support for those impacted by gambling harm,” said Samantha Turton, Head of Remote Support Services at GamCare.
“Nighttime can often be particularly challenging for individuals, with feelings of isolation or distress increasing. By offering these chatrooms during late hours, we’re ensuring that people can access support, connect with others and find a safe space whenever they need it most.”
