A new service designed to address gambling-related harm is set to launch in Wales this April.
The Wales Gambling Helpline will officially begin operating on April 1, providing advice, emotional support and referrals to treatment for people affected by gambling harm, as well as for families and loved ones impacted by someone else’s gambling.
Alongside the helpline, a dedicated NHS specialist gambling treatment service will also be introduced. The service is funded by the Welsh Government through the UK-wide gambling levy and will be delivered by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.
Sarah Murphy, Wales’ minister for mental health and wellbeing, described the launch as a major milestone, saying: “This is a landmark moment marking the first time specialist gambling treatment and support services will be available from the NHS in Wales.”
She added: “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.
“Guided by the evidence, we’re confident this approach is the most effective way to deliver essential support for both prevention and treatment.”
The service will receive £1.3 million in funding each year and is expected to support tens of thousands of people across Wales who may be vulnerable to gambling-related harm. In addition to phone support, users will also be able to access help via a secure online platform, allowing for remote treatment and advice.
Dr Faye Graver, clinical lead for gambling treatment services at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said: “We are establishing a specialist gambling treatment service and the Wales Gambling Helpline to provide much-needed support for people struggling with gambling addiction.
“They will provide the necessary support, advice and information not only to people experiencing gambling-related harms, but also their family members and others affected.
“Research shows tens of thousands of people in Wales need support for gambling related harms and this treatment service will provide this from referral and triage through to aftercare.”
The launch marks a significant expansion of NHS-backed gambling harm support in Wales, bringing treatment, prevention and aftercare under one coordinated system for the first time.