GambleAware’s Lived Experience Council (LIC), comprised entirely of individuals who have personally faced gambling harms or been affected by others’ gambling, held its inaugural session on December 2, 2022. With a two-year term of office, which can be renewed once, the Council recently elected Ben Howard as the new Chair. This collaborative initiative aims to support communities most in need and guide GambleAware’s strategic development during a crucial time of impending regulatory reform.
A Commitment to Engaging with the Gambling Harms Community:
GambleAware’s Chief Executive, Zoë Osmond, expressed pride in the organization’s commitment to involving individuals with experience and expertise in addressing the public health crisis of gambling harms. With the imminent publication of the White Paper and subsequent regulatory reforms, the Council’s role in shaping the future path of GambleAware becomes crucial.
Introducing the Council Members:
The LIC consists of ten members, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. Besides Chair Ben Howard, the Council includes David Quinti, Leanne Downie, Mark Conway, Nicola Jaques, Sam Starsmore, Steph Shilton, Suhayl Patel, Jas Bindarh, and an unnamed member. The diversity of their lived experiences positions the Council to provide valuable insights and drive effective initiatives.
Leveraging the Power of Treatment:
GambleAware’s recent report highlights the positive impact of the National Gambling Treatment Service (NGTS). The study revealed that after only six appointments, individuals suffering from problem gambling experienced significant improvements in their condition. Impressively, 77% of individuals continued to make progress with their addiction even after completing the initial treatment, while 56% showed notable enhancements in their overall well-being.
Guiding GambleAware’s Mission:
The LIC’s formation and ongoing involvement will play a pivotal role in guiding GambleAware’s mission to prevent and tackle gambling harms. By incorporating the voices and expertise of those directly affected by gambling, the organization ensures that its approach remains focused on the needs of the community it serves. The Council’s active participation in strategic decision-making will shape the future of GambleAware’s initiatives and enhance their effectiveness.
The establishment of GambleAware’s Lived Experience Council underscores the organization’s commitment to engaging with the gambling harms community. With an influential and diverse membership, the Council is poised to provide invaluable insights into the development of GambleAware’s initiatives. As the publication of the White Paper and regulatory reforms draw closer, the Council’s expertise will guide the organization’s strategic direction. Together, GambleAware and its Lived Experience Council strive to prevent and tackle gambling harms effectively, ensuring the well-being of individuals and communities affected by this issue.