GamCare, a UK-based non-profit organization dedicated to assisting individuals affected by gambling harm, has released its annual report for the year 2022-23. The report reveals a significant milestone, with the organization receiving a record number of calls, showcasing the increasing demand for its services.
Rising Demand for Support:
In the past year, GamCare experienced a remarkable surge in demand, with 44,049 calls or chats to its National Gambling Helpline. This figure represents a 4.7% increase compared to the previous year, marking the highest level of engagement since the organization’s inception. The substantial uptick in calls underscores the importance of accessible support for individuals affected by gambling-related harm.
Treatment and Support:
During the reporting period, GamCare administered a total of 38,456 treatment sessions to individuals seeking assistance. These sessions included 9,009 Extended Brief Interventions (EBIs), which play a vital role in the recovery process. Impressively, 92% of participants successfully completed their EBI course, with 71% of all users completing their respective treatments. These statistics highlight the effectiveness of GamCare’s programs in guiding individuals towards recovery.
Demographic Insights:
The report also provides insights into the demographics of individuals reaching out for support. Notably, 68% of those contacting the hotline identified as men, 30% as women, and 2% as transgender or represented otherwise. It’s essential to recognize that gambling harm can affect individuals from diverse backgrounds and identities.
The Reasons for Seeking Support:
A significant portion of those reaching out for support, 87%, were doing so due to their personal gambling-related issues. However, it’s important to note that 13% accessed GamCare’s services because of someone else’s gambling, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of gambling harm within communities.
Education and Outreach:
GamCare is not only focused on providing support but also on prevention and education. The organization’s dedication to awareness and education is evident as 64,372 individuals completed a gambling awareness training course. A remarkable 60% increase in the number of young people attending gambling awareness workshops, totaling 45,562, signifies the effectiveness of the outreach initiatives.
GamCare’s 2022-23 Annual Report highlights the organization’s unwavering commitment to addressing gambling harm and supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. The record-breaking number of calls reflects the increasing need for accessible services, and GamCare’s successful treatment programs underscore the impact of its work. The focus on education and outreach demonstrates a comprehensive approach to reducing gambling-related harm and fostering a safer and more responsible gambling environment in the UK.