GamCare, a UK charity providing frontline support to individuals affected by gambling, has released its annual report for 2021-22, marking the organization’s 25th anniversary. The report reveals a significant surge in helpline calls, reaching an all-time high of 42,070 during the year. As the UK grapples with the multifaceted impact of gambling, GamCare’s data sheds light on key trends, including the demographics of helpline users, reasons for seeking treatment, and prevalent consequences of gambling habits.
Record-Breaking Helpline Calls:
During the reported year, GamCare witnessed an unprecedented 42,070 contacts to the National Gambling Helpline, showcasing the highest volume recorded since the service’s inception. This surge in outreach underscores the escalating demand for support services among individuals adversely affected by gambling-related issues.
Demographic Insights:
Of the individuals reaching out to the helpline, 70% identified as male, while 30% identified as female. These demographic nuances provide valuable insights into the gender distribution of those seeking assistance for gambling-related challenges.
Treatment Sessions and Trends:
The report notes that 9,728 individuals engaged in treatment sessions, a slight decrease from the previous year. Among those seeking treatment, 86% were doing so for their own gambling habits. The primary reason cited by 64% of users was “chasing losses,” followed by escapism and boredom (33%) and financial difficulties (32%).
Impact of Gambling:
The consequences of gambling habits were reflected in the reported impacts. Anxiety or stress was the most commonly reported effect at 79%, followed closely by financial difficulties at 75%. Depression or low mood ranked third at 57%. These statistics emphasize the multifaceted toll that gambling can take on individuals’ mental health and well-being.
GamCare’s Response:
Anna Hemmings, GamCare CEO, acknowledged the challenges of the past year and highlighted the increasing demand for GamCare’s services. The organization’s teams demonstrated resilience and agility in providing diverse support options. With a focus on monitoring the evolving landscape, Hemmings expressed awareness of the potential impact of rising costs on individuals relying on GamCare’s services.
GamCare’s annual report paints a comprehensive picture of the evolving landscape of gambling-related harm in the UK. The record number of helpline calls underscores the urgency of addressing the challenges associated with gambling, and the insights provided by the report serve as a valuable resource for shaping targeted interventions and support services. As GamCare navigates its 25th year, the commitment to mitigating gambling harm remains steadfast, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to create a safer and more supportive environment for individuals affected by gambling-related issues.