The number of Brits contacting GamCare’s National Gambling Helpline increased to 42,070 for the 2021/22 period, according to the charity’s latest annual report. This is the highest figure that the charity has reported since the service was launched more than 20 years ago.
Increase in Calls Mainly Due to Continuing Uncertainty
According to GamCare, the increase in helpline calls was mainly brought about by rising costs of living, post-pandemic challenges, economic instability, and the current political uncertainty in the UK.
The latest report from the independent charity shows that 62% of those who called the helpline encountered financial difficulties due to gambling, with 57% stating their debts were piling up. Most of the helpline users (64%) stated chasing losses as their primary reason for gambling.
GamCare Highlights Rising Demand for Gambling Support Services
Meanwhile, GamCare saw a slight decline in the number of people accessing treatment, with the figure dropping to 9,728.
But overall, demand for the charity’s support services is increasing, as highlighted by GamCare CEO Anna Hemmings. In response, the organization launched additional programs to offer a more diverse range of support for those struggling with gambling harm.
Among them is the “Way Forward” program announced this year which specifically caters to women gamblers. The charity is also offering online gambling companies a package that will enable them to directly transfer at-risk customers to the National Gambling Helpline.