In 2023-24, GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline experienced an unprecedented rise in demand, responding to 55,228 calls and online chats—a 25% increase compared to the previous year. This milestone, highlighted in the charity’s Annual Report, underscores the growing prevalence of gambling-related harm in the UK. Despite challenges posed by uncertainty over gambling reform, GamCare remained committed to addressing the needs of at-risk individuals.
Seamless access to treatment:
Among the interactions, 74%—equivalent to 41,070 calls or chats—were categorized as supportive interventions. These initial engagements often provided crucial guidance and served as entry points to structured treatment services. According to GamCare, individuals completing treatment reported significant improvements, including reduced financial distress and a notable decline in gambling-related hardship.
GamCare delivered over 9,100 free treatment sessions during the year, maintaining an average wait time of just 2.1 days from referral to service delivery. This efficiency underscores the Helpline’s pivotal role in providing urgent care. A report from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, published in March 2024, revealed that 57% of individuals accessing gambling harm treatment were referred through GamCare, further highlighting its importance as a gateway to recovery.
Margot Daly, Executive Chair of GamCare’s Board, commended the organization’s efforts: “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 where necessary.”
She also praised frontline staff for their dedication to delivering 24/7 support, ensuring those affected by gambling harm received timely assistance.
Expanding outreach and education:
Beyond its helpline, GamCare expanded its reach through targeted programs addressing the needs of vulnerable groups such as women, young people, and those within the criminal justice system. The organization provided training for over 10,000 professionals to identify signs of gambling harm and offer appropriate referrals. Additionally, more than 53,000 young people, children, and parents received educational resources aimed at fostering awareness and prevention.
A notable highlight was the Women’s Programme, which partnered with organizations like Refuge to equip nearly 4,000 professionals with the skills needed to address gambling-related harm among women. By focusing on tailored interventions for specific demographics, GamCare sought to extend its impact and ensure no group was overlooked.
GamCare’s efforts come at a time of significant change within the gambling sector, driven by the UK government’s white paper on gambling reform. Despite these uncertainties, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to provide free, confidential support and treatment to those affected by gambling issues. Founded in 1997, GamCare continues to lead the charge in minimizing gambling-related harm through education, advocacy, and innovative programs.
Daly reaffirmed GamCare’s proactive approach to collaborating with the NHS and other partners to enhance the sector’s future in the company’s press release: “As we look ahead to how the future of the gambling harms 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.”
