GamCare has voiced its support for the launch of a dedicated gambling helpline in Wales, with CEO Victoria Corbishley stressing that a coordinated approach is essential to ensure clarity for those seeking help. She underlined that the “shared aim” should be to “minimise any confusion for those reaching out in moments of vulnerability.”
The Welsh Government has confirmed that the Wales Gambling Helpline will go live on 1 April, operated by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.
Designed to provide information, guidance and emotional support, the service will also facilitate referrals into treatment programmes. Alongside the phone line, a digital platform will deliver remote therapeutic support for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm.
To fund the initiative, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has received £1.3m generated through the UK’s statutory gambling harm levy, with the allocation distributed by the Welsh Government.
Corbishley welcomed the development and signalled GamCare’s willingness to collaborate during the transition period.
“We wish Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board well as they build a new NHS helpline for people in Wales and we look forward to working closely together in the transition,” Corbishley said.
“GamCare’s priority has always been, and continues to be, ensuring that individuals affected by gambling harms can access confidential, non-judgemental and effective support.
“We will be writing to Sarah Murphy, minister for mental health and wellbeing, about the decision and how to make the relationship between our helplines work for people who are at risk of gambling harms across England and Wales.
“The shared aim must be to minimise any confusion for those reaching out in moments of vulnerability. Our focus remains firmly on the people we serve.”
Wales’ Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sarah Murphy, described the helpline’s introduction as a significant step forward for support services addressing gambling harm across the nation.
“The helpline will be a form of open access support available to people who need it the most and fits into the ambitions of our Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy,” she said.
“Guided by the evidence, we’re confident this approach is the most effective way to deliver essential support for both prevention and treatment.”