Nine in 10 people helped by GambleAware service, data reveals

New data from UK body GambleAware has revealed that nine in 10 people who completed treatment through the National Gambling Treatment Service saw an improvement in their condition.

The latest data for 2022-23 released on Saturday adds that 50 per cent of people were seen within five days of a referral and three in four were seen within nine days.

Anna Hargrave, chief commissioning and strategy officer at GambleAware, said: “Today’s data clearly demonstrates the value of the prevention-focused approach applied through our network.

“It is a timely reminder of the importance of investing in early treatment – especially as recently reported figures from the Gambling Commission suggest prevalence of harmful gambling may be much larger than previously estimated.”

GambleAware commissions the National Gambling Treatment Service which comprises 10 organisations across England, Scotland and Wales. The service offers free and confidential treatment as well as early intervention and prevention services for anyone suffering from gambling harms.

Zoë Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, added: “We welcome the government’s forthcoming statutory levy on gambling operators – it is a measure we have long called for to make sure that funding for vital research, treatment and prevention of gambling harms is both long-term and transparent.

“However, the focus on specialist-led services means right now, hundreds of dedicated third sector support workers are deeply concerned about their future and the future of the communities they serve.”

Osmond added: “There is an urgent need for reassurance from government that these essential services will be protected during and following the transition.

“We cannot lose the vast years of experience and expertise contained in the National Gambling Support Network and the wider third sector.”