GamCare reports 25% rise in gambling helpline contacts in 2023-24
Over 55,000 calls and online chats were recorded as GamCare expanded prevention and treatment programs to address gambling-related harm.Key points:
- GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline handled 55,228 contacts in 2023-24, marking a 25% increase from the previous year
- 74% of interactions resulted in supportive interventions, with referrals leading to over 9,100 free treatment sessions
- Targeted programs trained 10,344 professionals and educated 53,324 young people, parents and children on identifying and addressing gambling harm
GamCare has reported a 25% rise in calls and online chats to its National Gambling Helpline, totalling 55,228 contacts in the 2023-24 period, according to the charity’s Annual Report.
The increase highlights growing demand for gambling harm prevention and treatment services amid broader discussions on reforms outlined in the government’s white paper on gambling regulation.
Of the contacts received, 41,070 interactions – 74% – resulted in supportive interventions.
These included initial guidance, advice and referrals for structured treatment programs. GamCare reported delivering 9,100 free treatment sessions during the year, with an average referral-to-treatment waiting time of 2.1 days.
The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities recognised the Helpline’s role, noting that 57% of individuals in treatment were referred through GamCare’s services.
In addition to Helpline operations, GamCare expanded its prevention efforts. Targeted programs offered training to 10,344 professionals and delivered education to 53,324 young people, parents and children.
Good to know: A specific focus on women’s gambling-related harm resulted in partnerships with organisations like Refuge, which trained 3,813 professionals
Margot Daly, Executive Chair of GamCare, commented: "Throughout a challenging year and with heightened demand for our services, GamCare’s staff have got on with the job of preventing harm where possible and treating harm where necessary.”
The report follows earlier findings from GamCare’s December survey, which highlighted increased gambling activity during the festive season. Results showed 59% of respondents with gambling problems reported a higher likelihood of gambling during Christmas, up from 37% the previous year. Helpline demand also rose by 39% in December, marking the busiest Christmas on record.
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