The “Wagering with Life” group has put forward a novel treatment plan for individuals grappling with gambling dependence. This innovative plan will link those impacted by gambling harm with medical professionals, providing therapeutic interventions and support networks for both the affected individual and their families.
The organization aims to collaborate closely with the National Health Service (NHS) to enhance existing treatment and support mechanisms. They have submitted a funding application to the UK Gambling Commission to initiate a pilot program in Greater Manchester, partnering with local organizations.
The knowledge gleaned from this pilot program will be utilized to elevate gambling treatment and care standards nationwide. The objective is to establish a framework for incorporating gambling harm treatment into the NHS integrated care system.
Liz Ritchie, co-founder of “Wagering with Life,” highlighted the significance of engaging those affected by gambling harm in shaping care and treatment for addiction.
Its clear that many individuals are facing difficulties in accessing support and feel unheard. This novel care and treatment strategy is crafted to directly tackle these concerns.
GamCare revealed that they constructed this strategy by engaging in discussions with individuals who have personally encountered gambling issues. They also conducted workshops with gambling enterprises, additional support organizations, medical professionals, and specialists to determine the ideal framework for the system.
The charitable organization stated that the primary objective of this strategy is to simplify access to assistance and treatment for a greater number of individuals. They emphasized the critical importance of identifying problem gambling in its early stages.
GamCare also aims to ensure that individuals can effortlessly obtain assistance and achieve their desired outcomes. They further aspire to prevent suicides linked to gambling difficulties.
GamCare asserted that the strategy will be integrated into existing health, care, and public service frameworks. Frontline personnel will be informed about the strategy to enable them to refer individuals as needed.
GamCare also elaborated on the project’s operational procedures. Initially, they will promote the project and execute programs to enhance awareness. They will also connect with professionals and screen individuals to identify those who could potentially benefit from the project.
This initiative will pinpoint the origin of subsequent actions, encompassing information and education concerning problematic gambling, early assistance and guidance, motivational discussions, peer backing, and therapeutic interventions. This will also apply to individuals reaching out on behalf of others, who will be provided with counsel and assistance.
The initiative will monitor all participants and evaluate their advancement following treatment to ascertain if additional support and therapy are required.
“Gambling with Lives” asserts that the project will possess a spectrum of ultimate objectives, including individuals ceasing gambling entirely, enhancing mental well-being, feeling fully supported, experiencing a heightened sense of empowerment, and comprehending the impact of their gambling habits on themselves and their surroundings.
Professor Henrietta Bowden-Jones, the founder and director of the National Problem Gambling Clinic, expressed approval of the proposal, stating that integration into the broader NHS network would aid those suffering from gambling-related harm.
Bowden-Jones remarked: “It is crucial that evidence-based services are spearheaded by the NHS to guarantee high-quality clinical norms. I applaud this project and express gratitude to those who have been adversely affected by gambling for their efforts in assisting us to ensure that services are incorporated with existing NHS pathways and genuinely fulfill the requirements of our population.”
The head of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Reform, Lord Bassam of Brighton, expressed his delight at seeing those affected by gambling addiction spearheading the drive for enhanced access to evidence-based therapies. This comes as lawmakers strive to strengthen gambling regulations in order to mitigate the negative consequences of gambling.
He proposed a clever tax to finance these treatments, ensuring their independence from the gambling industry and their operation under the auspices of the National Health Service. He commended the efforts of Gambling with Lives in this domain, which prioritizes the well-being of families.
This novel proposition follows the recent launch of Gambling with Lives’ “Big Step” campaign. The campaign advocates for the cessation of all gambling promotions during football matches.
Backed by Forest Green Rovers, a club competing in England’s second tier, the campaign aims to eliminate all gambling sponsorships and advertisements in football matches. At present, 55 distinct gambling sponsorship or partnership arrangements are in effect across 44 football clubs in the top two divisions of English football.
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