GambleAware Reports Increase in Gambling Support and Treatment Access
GambleAware has announced a significant increase in the number of people seeking help from the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN). Compared to the previous year, more than 10% more people received treatment for gambling-related harm.
Early Intervention and Expanded Access
According to GambleAware’s Chief Commissioning and Strategy Officer, Anna Hargrave, a key factor behind the rise in treatment numbers is the ability to identify and assist individuals at earlier stages of gambling harm.
Hargrave explained, “Not only have we reached more people, but we have been able to identify and support people at a much earlier stage, which is part of the reason for the increase in people receiving treatment and support.”
Covering the period from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024, the NGSN Annual Statistics report offers an in-depth look at the individuals receiving help, the outcomes of their treatment, and trends in gambling harm interventions over the past nine years.
The NGSN, commissioned by GambleAware, collaborates with the NHS and other third-sector organizations to provide free, confidential support services tailored to individual needs across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Tiered Treatment Approach at the NGSN
The NGSN operates on a tiered treatment system, ensuring that interventions are matched to the severity and specific needs of individuals.
- Tier 2: Early intervention services for those concerned about their gambling, offering initial support and guidance from trained professionals.
- Tier 3: Structured treatment such as one-on-one sessions, group therapy, or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
- Tier 4: The most intensive care level, including residential treatment programs for severe cases.
The report reveals that a total of 10,754 individuals received support or treatment from the NGSN during the year, with 7,463 receiving structured treatment at Tiers 3 or 4. Of this group, 3,048 individuals also accessed Tier 2 support, reflecting the network’s commitment to early-stage intervention.
Big Progress in the Fight Against Problem Gambling
The report highlights significant progress in tackling problem gambling, with 95% of those completing their treatment showing notable improvements.
The rate of problem gambling dropped dramatically from 87% at the start of treatment to just 10% upon completion. Access to support was also swift, as half of those seeking help had their first appointment within six days, and 75% were seen within 12 days.
Additionally, the report expanded its focus to include early intervention efforts for the first time, revealing that 3,291 individuals sought initial support to address their gambling concerns, with 3,048 continuing on to receive structured treatment.
The inclusion of the Primary Care Gambling Service into the NGSN’s Data Reporting Framework contributed to the 12% increase in structured treatment figures.
Hargrave noted the importance of this addition, stating, “Our new commissioning arrangements have expanded the NGSN’s scope to include prevention and early intervention, reducing stigma and removing barriers to accessing treatment.”
The growing focus on early intervention aligns with the NGSN’s efforts to work more closely with local communities, fostering greater awareness and support for gambling harm.
Addressing the Wider Impact of Gambling Harm
The report also sheds light on the broader consequences of gambling-related harm. Among those treated:
- 66% reported being in debt due to gambling.
- 24% experienced the loss of a relationship.
- 11% suffered job loss.
In addition, 15% of individuals seeking support did so because of someone else’s gambling, a rise from the five-year average of 13%. This highlights the far-reaching impact of gambling harm beyond the individual gambler.
