GamCare Enhances Its Efforts to Combat Gambling Harm Across the UK
Introduction to GamCare’s Expanding Role
GamCare has established itself as a leading organisation dedicated to addressing gambling-related harm in the United Kingdom. Its support extends beyond individuals affected by problematic gambling to include their families and communities. Over recent years, GamCare has broadened its range of services significantly, with the Money Guidance Service (MGS) standing out as one of its most impactful programs.
The Crucial Support Provided by the Money Guidance Service
Originally launched in 2022 following pilot programs in the East Midlands and Yorkshire & the Humber, the Money Guidance Service was created to fill an important gap in GamCare’s offerings. This service focuses on helping individuals regain financial stability after experiencing gambling-related difficulties. Encouraged by the success of the trials, GamCare expanded the service nationwide in 2023.
Kathy Wade, the manager of the Money Guidance Service, praised the dedicated team for their work in assisting clients to understand the connection between gambling support services and practical financial management. She emphasized the importance of these resources in helping people rebuild their lives amidst rising living costs.
It is inspiring to witness the positive difference the team has made in aiding individuals to recover financially from gambling harm, especially during a time when many face increasing economic pressure.
Kathy Wade, Money Guidance Service Manager at GamCare
The Money Guidance Service is unique in the UK as it offers specialist financial advice tailored specifically to gambling-related financial issues rather than generic debt counselling. Recent evaluations of the program reveal encouraging outcomes, including enhanced financial stability, reduced debt, and improvements in overall wellbeing among participants.
GamCare’s Broader Commitment to Preventing Gambling Harm
Financial challenges are a significant aspect of gambling harm, as shown by GamCare’s data: over 75% of callers to the National Gambling Helpline identified financial hardship linked to their gambling, and about one-third reported that financial worries contributed to their continued gambling behaviour. These statistics highlight the critical need for specialised, accessible financial guidance.
In addition to financial support, GamCare addresses more complex issues such as the relationship between gambling harm and domestic abuse. Many affected families face coercion into debt and feel powerless to speak out. By partnering with organisations like Refuge, GamCare has trained more than 3,800 professionals to identify and respond to signs of gambling-related abuse effectively.
Education and prevention remain central to GamCare’s mission. Its community outreach initiatives have reached over 53,000 young people and family members in the past year alone. The charity’s impact is also evident through its helpline: 57% of individuals entering treatment started by contacting the National Gambling Helpline, underscoring GamCare’s essential role as a gateway to structured support and ongoing recovery.
