Struggling with the impact of gambling? You’ve landed in a safe space. Our comprehensive guide to the National Gambling Support Network offers a range of confidential assistance for gambling-related concerns across the UK.
Whether it’s immediate intervention or sustained strategies you’re after, our compilation of support services for gambling challenges is at your disposal.
GAMSTOP Initiative
At the forefront of combating gambling addiction, GAMSTOP stands out as a non-profit organisation. It operates independently of regulatory bodies such as the UKGC and ASA, providing a self-exclusion scheme that spans all UK licensed gambling operators.
Operation Overview
The goal of GAMSTOP is straightforward: to streamline the self-exclusion process. Registering is the first step, followed by a set procedure. Once signed up, access to all member casinos in the UK is restricted.
Guidance
- Comprehensive Restriction: While individual casinos offer self-exclusion, GAMSTOP implements a country-wide prohibition.
- Proven Strategy: The self-exclusion approach is an effective tool in managing gambling activities. Begin by registering with GAMSTOP.
| Communication Channel | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Site | www.gamstop.co.uk |
GamCare Support
With a longstanding presence, GamCare provides the National Gambling Helpline alongside an extensive selection of support tools.
Available Support Channels
- Helpline: Call 0808 802 0133 for direct assistance.
- Live Chat: An instant option for support in real-time.
- Forum: Participate in discussions about safe gambling practices.
- Testimonials: Gain insights from the experiences of others.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Helpline | 0808 802 0133 |
| Official Website | www.gamcare.org.uk |
BeGambleAware
Under the governance of the UK Charity Commission, BeGambleAware operates as an NGO, providing distinctive resources alongside those offered by GamCare.
Distinguishing Features
- Specialist Guidance: Offers expert advice for affected individuals and healthcare professionals alike.
- Digital Outreach: Maintains a strong social media footprint with powerful video stories.
| Contact Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | www.begambleaware.org |
Gambling Therapy (GT)
Gambling Therapy provides a distinctive web-based therapeutic service, endorsed by a host of casinos.
Contacting Gambling Therapy
- Email Support: Reach out through the website’s contact form.
- Live Chat: Available at the top-right corner of their site.
- Community Forums: Sign-up necessary to join the conversation.
- Support Groups: Sessions listed on the website calendar, no appointment needed.
- Mobile Application: Downloadable for iOS and Android devices.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Email Contact | Use the contact form on the site |
| Live Chat Assistance | Click the chat icon on the top-right of the homepage |
| Web Address | www.gamblingtherapy.org |
Contacting the National Gambling Support Network
For anyone impacted by gambling, the National Gambling Support Network offers confidential, no-cost support around the clock. Assistance is available through their helpline at 0808 8020 133 or via one-to-one live chat sessions.
Assistance Organisations
Adferiad Recovery
Specialising in inpatient detoxification and residential rehabilitation, Adferiad Recovery caters to individuals with complex addiction needs.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | adferiad.org |
BetKnowMore UK
Offering Peer Aid certified training and peer-led recovery support, BetKnowMore UK stands as a pillar for those overcoming gambling addiction.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | betknowmoreuk.org |
Gamblers Anonymous
While independent from the National Gambling Support Network, Gamblers Anonymous provides a community for those seeking to address their gambling habits.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | gamblersanonymous.org.uk |
GamCare (National)
Delivering advice, information, and support throughout the UK, GamCare also facilitates peer interaction via chatrooms and forums.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | gamcare.org.uk |
Gordon Moody Association
Renowned as the premier charity for residential treatment of gambling addiction in the UK.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | gordonmoody.org.uk |
Primary Care Gambling Service
An NHS-affiliated, complimentary, and confidential service for individuals over 18, the Primary Care Gambling Service offers a comprehensive approach with support from a multidisciplinary team including Mental Health Nurses, GPs, therapists, and more.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | primarycaregamblingservice.co.uk |
Derman
Providing confidential counselling tailored to the Kurdish, Turkish, and Turkish Cypriot communities in London, Derman addresses a range of issues including gambling addiction.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Presence | derman.org.uk |
Regional Support Services
GamCare in London
GamCare’s London branch extends a variety of supportive measures to those dealing with gambling’s impact within London.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | gamcare.org.uk |
Breakeven
In Kent, Sussex, and the South East, Breakeven renders therapeutic services for gambling-related distress, accessible via phone, video, or face-to-face.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | breakeven.org.uk |
GamCare (South East)
Supportive interventions by GamCare are available throughout the South East, including Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Hampshire, and the Isle of Wight.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | gamcare.org.uk |
ARA (Recovery for All)
ARA offers a sanctuary of support for those grappling with gambling, providing advice, counselling, and professional training sessions, all in a confidential setting.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | recovery4all.co.uk |
Aquarius
Aquarius delivers a spectrum of complimentary and confidential support services for individuals in the West Midlands affected by gambling.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | aquarius.org.uk |
GamCare (East Midlands)
Across the East Midlands, GamCare provides a suite of support services in areas such as Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, and Nottinghamshire.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | gamcare.org.uk |
Breakeven (East of England)
Breakeven extends its therapeutic services to the East of England, offering confidential support through a variety of communication methods.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | breakeven.org.uk |
GamCare (Scotland)
GamCare’s Scottish services span across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Lanarkshires, providing a network of support for those affected by gambling.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | gamcare.org.uk |
Support Networks Across Regions
RCA Trust
At RCA Trust, individuals affected by gambling can access a suite of support options including personal counselling, group sessions, and family assistance.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | rcatrust.org.uk |
ARA (Recovery for All)
In Wales, ARA provides compassionate, confidential assistance for gambling issues, offering advice, therapy, and help to prevent relapse.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | recovery4all.co.uk |
GamCare (Yorkshire & Humber)
GamCare’s Yorkshire & Humber services deliver a tailored care approach for those experiencing gambling-related issues, ensuring privacy and no cost.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | gamcare.org.uk |
NECA
NECA offers a spectrum of confidential support services, catering to both immediate and ongoing needs.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | neca.co.uk |
Beacon Counselling Trust
Beacon Counselling Trust provides immediate access to a range of supportive services throughout the North West, ensuring timely assistance without the wait.
| Communication Method | Information |
|---|---|
| Online Portal | beaconcounsellingtrust.co.uk |
Guidance and Strategies for Gambling Addiction Recovery
Embarking on the path to recovery from gambling addiction is a complex journey that demands dedication and insight. Explore the pathway to overcoming gambling addiction and understand the different phases of rehabilitation.
Alternative Activities for Distraction
Escaping the clutches of gambling addiction often means finding new hobbies or activities that can divert your attention. Investigate a range of hobbies to combat addiction and learn how they can assist in redirecting your energies towards a more positive outlet.
Acknowledging the Truth of Addiction
Acknowledging the existence of an addiction is the critical first stride on the road to recovery. Grasp the concept of denial in addiction and the crucial step of facing the reality of your situation.
Embracing Self-Exclusion Strategies
Self-exclusion is a strategic approach for those struggling with gambling addiction. Discover the advantages and strategies for self-exclusion to aid in resisting the lure of gambling activities.
Resources to Combat Problem Gambling
While support and comprehension are vital, having the right resources can facilitate a smoother transition to abstinence. Here is a selection of trusted tools and applications crafted to assist individuals in regulating and curtailing their gambling behaviour:
- Gamblock: Software engineered to obstruct access to gambling websites and apps.
- BetBlocker: An application enabling users to voluntarily block online gambling exposure.
- NetNanny: A well-established filtering tool that bars entry to gambling portals.
- Gamban: Provides a shield against online gambling on all user devices.
- Betfilter: Tailored to obstruct and filter out gambling-related content online.
Protecting Young Minds from Gambling
The allure of gambling is reaching younger audiences more than ever before. Equip yourself with tactics and knowledge on preventing gambling among children and understand the critical nature of early preventative measures.
The Psychological Footprint of Gambling
Comprehending how gambling alters brain function can provide insights into the depth of its addictive potential. Examine the studies and insights regarding the brain’s response to gambling, and its long-term effects on mental processes.
