GambleAware outlines intentions for treatment service

GambleAware’s commissioning intentions outline a plan which includes a refreshed helpline, more integrated regional services, increased support for residential treatment and increased cooperation between service provider and local partners.   

The NGTS offers free support and treatment for those at risk of gambling harm, those experiencing gambling harm, and those who are affected by someone else’s gambling behaviours. It is structured as a network of third-sector organisations, which provide telephone, online and face-to-face support.

GambleAware said that the new intention document was drafted to meet the “growing and changing needs of those at risk of gambling harms in Great Britain.”    

GambleAware chief commissioning officer Anna Hargrave said: “We are excited to announce our new commissioning plans which will build on the success of our current prevention, support and treatment programmes.”

The development of the plan

The publication of the plan followed an intensive strategic review process, which involved engagement with a number of stakeholders and experts, including treatment providers, lived experience representatives, local authorities and NHS partners.

Through this, GambleAware developed a new outcome framework and delivery model – which the organisation states will enable its partners to deliver “more targeted support to greater numbers of people in need”.

“In the context of rising costs-of-living and increasing numbers of people at risk of gambling harm, we want to ensure our commissioning strategy can respond to the changing environment and the needs of the most vulnerable communities and groups,” continued Hargrave.

“We have built-up a wide pool of expertise and knowledge around gambling harms from years of working with our partners and we will continue to use this insight to improve and inform our work and ensure we are able to make a lasting impact to people’s lives.”

The NGTS has been reported to take as many as 60% of patients out of the problem gambling bracket, in a 2020 study commissioned by GambleAware, with the results confirmed by a further 2021 report into Scottish and Welsh users.

The NGTS has been buoyed in recent years by a number of awareness campaigns carried out by GambleAware.