GamCare.org.uk: All Facts, Mission, Programs 2025
GamCare provides support and guidance for those grappling with the complexities of gambling addiction. This UK-based organization primarily assists individuals in five regions: the South East, East Midlands, London, Scotland, and Yorkshire and the Humber. It delivers vital assistance to people struggling with the negative impacts of compulsive gambling.
GamCare provides a wide range of free, confidential services. It operates a 24/7 freephone helpline and live chat service, and offers structured therapeutic support, including face-to-face, online, and telephone counseling. It also runs a moderated online forum and shares self-guided workbooks, information on self-exclusion tools, and resources for managing finances.
Contents
Gambling addiction is a pervasive issue that affects individuals and communities globally. The easy access to services online has exacerbated the problem, leading to financial ruin, mental health struggles, and strained relationships. GamCare confronts these challenges head-on, recognizing the urgent need for intervention and support services for individuals struggling with gambling-related issues.
Engaging with individuals and communities through multifaceted campaigns, resources, and programs, GamCare promotes responsible gambling practices. Through educational initiatives, outreach efforts, and partnerships with stakeholders in the gambling industry, GamCare fosters awareness and understanding of the risks.
The online platform serves as a valuable hub of information, offering free training for professionals, guidance on self-exclusion, financial management, and seeking help.
What Is GamCare? About the Organization
Founded in 1997 by Paul Bellringer, GamCare is a registered charity in England (No. 1060005) and Scotland (No. SC050547). It stands as an independent nonprofit foundation dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of gambling and providing high-quality support for individuals and families across Britain within a strong governance framework.
GamCare has become a cornerstone in the realm of responsible gambling with a mission centered on offering free, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance. The organization’s work is supported by funding from GambleAware, donations, and other sources.
GamCare operates the National Gambling Helpline, providing support via:
- Freephone
- Web-based live chat
- SMS
It ensures accessible assistance for those in need. Through a combination of face-to-face and online services across England, Scotland, and Wales as part of the National Gambling Support Network, GamCare extends its reach to individuals seeking help nationwide.
Additionally, if you are located outside the UK, you are still welcome to take advantage of these services. The organization does not require a passport, proof of citizenship, or information about your country of origin. You can call an international phone number or contact them via messaging services for free, 24/7. They will respond in your preferred language!
What Is GamCare’s Mission?
Endorsed by a robust framework of governance and quality assurance, GamCare’s commitment to effective service delivery is evident. Its strategic ambitions include:
- The prevention of gambling harms before they start (youth outreach and public awareness campaigns)
- Universal access to support (multiple free contact channels and inclusive services)
- The establishment of trusted and valued services (GamCare is accountable to the Charity Commission and the OSCR)
This underscores GamCare’s dedication to fostering safer gambling practices and supporting those affected by addiction.
Professional Training and Collaboration with the Gambling Industry
Notably, GamCare works in partnership with gambling-related content platforms, providing resources aimed at enhancing social responsibility, responsible gambling practices, and consumer protection. While they recently closed their business services arm that provided the Safer Gambling Standard certification, for years, they trained staff on how to support customers at risk.
Their training programs equip industry professionals who work with gamblers and youth with essential insights into identifying the signs of gambling harm. They offer training for teachers, social workers, healthcare professionals, and staff in the criminal justice system.
Key Achievements and Impact
GamCare’s achievements underscore its significant impact on promoting responsible gambling practices, preventing harm, and providing vital support to individuals and communities impacted by addiction.
According to the 2024 Trustees’ Annual Report, the results are as follows:
- GamCare has grown into an £18.8 million income charity, with over 250 employees.
- There were 55,228 calls and online chats to/from the National Gambling Helpline.
- 72.7% of chats/calls were responded to within 30 seconds.
- 41,070 (74%) of all calls and online chats were classed as supportive interventions.
- 7,524 calls and messages were referred to regional treatment services.
- 9,121 structured treatment sessions were delivered, with wait times of only 2.1 days.
- 87% of engaged clients successfully completed their structured treatment.
- 93% of those who completed treatment felt that it brought a positive change.
- 10,344 professionals working with at-risk individuals were trained to help.
- 53,324 young people, children, and parents received education on gambling harms.
- 1,269 workers of financial services organizations and gambling operators were educated in gambling awareness.
- 5,877 people joined the forum, with a total of 4,049 posts made.
- 1,508 interventions were delivered by the adult treatment teams to support and empower families and friends.
Related Stats
- 57% of individuals engaging in the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) treatment were referred by the GamCare helpline.
- 25.5% (13,016) of inbound calls and online chats received a Gamban code for a free license, and, of those, 49% (6,391) registered for it.
- In 2023-24, Youth Advisory Board members volunteered 2,827 hours. There were 167 completions of Bronze, Silver, and Gold DofE Awards.
- In 2023-24, over 230 stakeholders from the financial services, debt advice, and gambling harms treatment sectors attended GamCare’s networking events.
- Almost 100% of people would recommend the treatment to someone else.
GamCare UK Partnerships
The organization plays a national role in the UK’s strategy to address gambling harms. It is central to the support system and has extensive partnerships and recognized accreditations. GamCare is currently in partnership with the following organizations and stakeholders:
- GambleAware: GambleAware funds the majority of GamCare’s work and helps extend its support network. It ensures that a coordinated, evidence-based system of prevention and treatment is in place.
- NHS (National Health Service): While the NHS operates its own gambling treatment clinics, GamCare works alongside it. It has cooperated directly with NHS Foundation Trusts (such as the Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust).
- YGAM: GamCare UK partners with YGAM to collaborate on the Young People’s Gambling Harm Prevention Programme across England and Wales. This is the largest program of its kind in the world.
- Beacon Counselling Trust: Through partnership with Beacon Counselling Trust, GamCare offers free therapeutic support to individuals affected by gambling addiction in the North West of England and parts of Wales.
- Breakeven: The collaboration with Breakeven provides support services to individuals struggling with gambling-related issues in the South East of England.
- North-East Council on Addictions (NECA): It helps GamCare expand its reach to individuals in the North East of England, offering support and resources for those affected by gambling harms.
- Aquarius: The partnership with Aquarius helps deliver support services and interventions for people and families impacted by addiction in the Midlands.
- Addiction Recovery Agency (ARA): As the NGSN delivery partner for the South West of England and Wales, ARA maintains a robust system of support services.
GamCare provides local authorities with data from its research (just like the ICRG) and partners with local councils to support the commissioning and delivery of local gambling harm prevention services. Also, the organization collaborates with various stakeholders in the gambling industry, government agencies, and other community organizations.
Accreditation Schemes: Safer Gambling Standard
GamCare previously managed the Safer Gambling Standard. It was a quality mark awarded to gambling operators. The scheme was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a company’s safer gambling policies. The Standard provided a framework to improve the player protection measures. The scheme was accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service. GamCare officially announced that it ceased to offer Safer Gambling Standard services at the end of 2024.
Quality Assurance
GamCare’s services are defined by a strong commitment to quality. It holds accreditation from the Helplines Partnership, so its services meet national quality standards. As an organizational member, GamCare adheres to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy’s (BACP) ethical framework.
The organizational accreditation ISO 9001 signifies that it meets international standards for quality management systems. Additionally, GamCare has been working with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to develop an inspection framework for problem gambling treatment services.
Services Offered by GamCare
GamCare’s diverse range of services and resources aims to address the multifaceted challenges associated with gambling addiction. It seeks to empower individuals to make positive changes in their lives and find pathways to recovery.
The list of services includes:
- Face-to-face, online, and telephone therapeutic support
- Treatment for people experiencing gambling harm
- Self-guided tools
- Peer support services
- Forums
- Chat rooms
- Educational materials
- Guides on self-exclusion and blocking software
- Financial GamCare counseling services
- Links to other support agencies
On the website, you can find tools to understand your gambling habits. There are lists of signs of gambling harm, stories from people they’ve helped, online support services, a special women’s pathway, the Lived Experience Community (LEC), and the armed forces project. The services are similar to those offered by 800gambler.org.
GamCare Counseling Services
GamCare offers confidential counseling services to individuals grappling with gambling addiction. Like Gamblers Anonymous and its sub-program Gam-Anon, GamCare provides personalized support and guidance to help clients overcome challenges and foster positive change.
Finding Community: GamCare Forum and Online Community
GamCare hosts an online forum where individuals can connect with peers facing similar challenges related to gambling addiction. It looks like an online board where users can read and share experiences at any time. They can create their own threads and share their personal stories. There are sections for partners and family members. This and other forums, such as those provided by GamTalk, offer a supportive environment for seeking advice and finding solidarity on the journey to recovery.
The chat rooms are real-time, text-based group discussions moderated by GamCare practitioners where people can get immediate support. They are not open (unlike the forum), and conversations are safe. GamCare runs a daily schedule of chat rooms, centered around specific themes. They enable live interaction and are an alternative to face-to-face support groups.
What is MyGamCare?
To make help personal, GamCare has developed MyGamCare. It is a free online portal that helps users manage their paths toward recovery. Using this personalized online space, users can track their gambling activities or urges, set goals, and access support tools. MyGamCare provides access to relevant articles, exercises, and self-help materials.
To help new users get started, GamCare has created a helpful video tutorial. You can register, go through the GamCare login, and use this tool as part of your recovery and responsible gambling journey.
Structured Support Programs
GamCare offers structured support programs tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals affected by gambling addiction. Examples include:
- The Leeds Community Gambling Service (LCGS)
- Primary Care Gambling Service (PCGS)
- Specialized Training on Women and Gambling Harm
- Armed Forces Project
- Young People’s Support Service
These programs provide specialized interventions, group therapy, and peer support to facilitate recovery and promote well-being.
The Gambling Related Financial Harm (GRFH) Toolkit
67% of callers to the National Gambling Helpline disclosed some level of gambling-related debt, whilst 76% reported financial difficulties. In 2019, the Gambling Related Financial Harm (GRFH) project was launched. In September 2020, it released the GRFH Toolkit.
Developed through collaboration with key stakeholders and individuals with lived experience, the GRFH Toolkit is a resource aimed at fostering consistent and effective responses to gambling harms. It empowers businesses with the tools to deliver quality customer communications concerning gambling risks.
Key components of the GRFH Toolkit include:
Toolkit Component | Description |
|---|---|
Core Messages and Self-Help Toolkit | It provides a framework for effective communication with people experiencing gambling-related issues. It includes four key self-help tools recommended by experts to help individuals manage their gambling habits. It has proven its practicality through successful implementation by MoneyHelper and Barclays Bank. |
Timely Interactions with Customers to Prevent GRFH | This part advocates for proactive engagement with customers. It offers specific recommendations for organizations to initiate timely interactions and prevent gambling-related financial harm. |
Referral Pathways | These flowcharts give professionals the information and guidance they need to provide effective and sensitive support. They also show clear referral pathways for each sector. |
A Framework for Continuous Learning | This resource supports organizations in planning staff training and development. It provides a structured approach to ongoing education. |
The GRFH Toolkit serves as an indispensable resource for professionals across diverse sectors, empowering them to identify, prevent, and address harm effectively.
Engagement and Outreach Initiatives by GamCare
GamCare actively engages with the community to promote responsible gambling practices through a variety of:
- Webinars
- Outreach programs
- Workshops
- Online campaigns
These initiatives aim to raise awareness, educate the public about the risks of gambling addiction, and provide support to those in need.
The following are key outreach and prevention programs:
Program | Description |
|---|---|
A program focused on educating and supporting young people (ages 11-19) in understanding the risks and harm associated with gambling. This program encompasses the following services:
| |
A program addressing the specific needs and challenges women may face in relation to gambling, involving targeted support and resources. | |
This program provides support for individuals within the justice system (in prison, on probation, or in contact with police) dealing with gambling-related issues. It includes:
| |
This offers support for individuals and families who have experienced financial difficulties due to gambling, including financial counseling and debt management support. | |
An initiative to provide the Armed Forces, ex-service members, and their community with the knowledge and tools to access support. It includes:
|
Contact GamCare for Help
Accessing support services from GamCare is straightforward and confidential. The organization strives to provide individuals with the easily accessible assistance they need to address their gambling-related concerns. This is how you can access the services:
Contact Method | Details |
Website | |
GamCare Contact Number | +44-808-8020-133 (The National Gambling Helpline) |
Address | Unit 751-760, Salisbury House, 29 Finsbury Circus, London, EC2M 5SQ, UK |
Twitter/X | |
YouTube | |
Beyond direct contact, GamCare provides specialized channels:
- A real-time text-based Live Chat with a Helpline adviser
- Conversation via WhatsApp by messaging the GamCare helpline +44-808-8020-133
- Moderated online forums and group chat rooms, available 24/7
- Local treatment services across Great Britain for face-to-face or online support
GamCare mainly operates in the UK, but its online help is open internationally. The website has 14 localized versions and is available in Chinese, Arabic, Turkish, Punjabi, Russian, Thai, Polish, Swedish, Italian, French, German, Welsh, Lithuanian, and Romanian.
Testimonials and Success Stories
The testimonials highlight the real-life impact of GamCare’s work and the positive outcomes experienced by individuals who have accessed the services. If you’d like to hear real people’s reviews, feel free to follow the GamCare YouTube channel.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out; the organization is there to help 24/7.
