GambleAware, a nonprofit organization devoted to responsible gambling, announced it is redesigning its National Gambling Treatment Service (NGTS) to meet the growing and changing needs of those at risk of gambling harm in Great Britain.
The organization’s recent 2021 Treatment and Support Survey found that only a small group of people are accessing treatment services in Great Britain compared to a much wider population in need of them.
Following an independent review and engagement with gambling harm providers, people with lived experience, the NHS and the Local Authority partners, GambleAware established a list of “commissioning intentions” for planning work with providers and partners over the coming years to deliver a new service delivery model.
The new system will be comprised of:
- a refreshed, multi-channel National Gambling Helpline;
- 10 regional alliances to better integrate regional and local systems;
- increased residential treatment programs; and,
- a new system coordinator role to improve connections between national and regional providers.
“We are currently working with stakeholders and partners on this new delivery system with Expressions Of Interest (EOI) processes under way and new contracts to be in place by early 2023,” the organization said on its website.
Anna Hargrave, GambleAware chief commissioning officer, told SBC News, “We are excited to announce our new commissioning plans which will build on the success of our current prevention, support and treatment programs.
“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.”
