London, UK – December 23, 2024 – GamCare has released its annual report, revealing that its National Gambling Helpline reached a record high in the volume of support services provided over the past year.
According to the charity’s annual report, the National Gambling Helpline received 55,228 contacts—via online chat and telephone—from individuals affected by gambling-related harm during the 2023–24 period, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the future shape and structure of gambling-related harm treatment—following the publication of a white paper on gambling reform by the previous government—GamCare has remained steadfast in its focus on those at risk of, or currently experiencing, harm from gambling.
In 2023/24, 41,070 of the contacts handled by the helpline (74%) were classified as “supportive interventions.” This encompasses not only providing initial guidance and advice but also facilitating seamless access to structured treatment services. Data indicates that individuals who complete treatment experience a significant reduction in both gambling-related psychological distress and financial losses.
In March 2024, the UK’s Office for Health Improvement and Disparities published an evaluation of the gambling treatment system, noting that 57% of individuals entering treatment were referred via the National Gambling Helpline. This underscores the critical role the helpline plays in connecting those in need with the support they require. In the year leading up to April 2024, the organization delivered over 9,100 free treatment sessions, with an average wait time of just 2.1 days from referral to the commencement of treatment. GamCare has implemented specialized initiatives for young people, women, and those within the criminal justice system. The organization has provided professional training to 10,344 individuals, equipping them to recognize signs of gambling-related harm and direct those affected toward appropriate support resources. Additionally, GamCare has delivered educational outreach to 53,324 young people, children, and their parents. Notably, the “Women’s Programme”—conducted in partnership with organizations such as Refuge—has trained 3,813 professionals to identify and address gambling-related harms specifically affecting women. Margot Daly, Executive Chair of the GamCare Board, stated: “Throughout a challenging year marked by an increasing demand for our services, the entire GamCare team has remained steadfast in their commitment—working to prevent gambling-related harm wherever possible, and providing essential treatment and intervention when needed. Despite the significant changes currently unfolding within the sector, we remain resolute: this uncertainty will not distract us from our core focus—the individuals who are at risk of, or are already suffering from, the consequences of gambling.”
“I would like to express my gratitude and respect to our frontline staff, who work around the clock (24/7) to support those in need or in distress. I also extend my thanks to the GamCare executive team for steering the organization through a period of ongoing change, and to my fellow trustees for their guidance, unwavering support, and the time they have dedicated to ensuring that this charity remains on the right path, true to its mission.”
“Looking ahead, as the landscape for preventing and addressing gambling-related harm continues to evolve, we will work closely with the National Health Service (NHS) and our other partners and commissioners to ensure that people can always access the right support at the right time.”
About GamCare:
Established in 1997, GamCare is the leading organization in the UK providing information, advice, and support to those affected by gambling-related harm—whether due to their own gambling or the gambling behavior of others. The National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare and funded by GambleAware, provides free and confidential support. You can access help by calling 0808 8020 133, using the live chat feature on our website, or sending a message via WhatsApp. Last year, the helpline handled over 55,000 calls and online inquiries; our professional advisors are available 24/7 to provide you with support.
GamCare is a member of the National Gambling Support Network, which is funded by GambleAware. The network consists of various organizations across the UK that offer free, confidential, and personalized support to those experiencing gambling-related issues, as well as to those affected by someone else’s gambling.
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