Gambling Support Service (GSS) has issued a study that concludes that social stigma remains an important factor that prevents people in Scotland from seeking help for problem gambling.
iGaming Business reports that the study was done by Kantar Public for GSS, which is a joint project of GambleAware and Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS.) They provide training for workers such as police and paramedics to help them recognize when people are at risk of gambling harm.
This training is given at Citizens Advice Bureaux in multiple locations in Scotland that provide services such as debt advice, mental health and housing.
The study provides advice and guidance, for example asking questions designed to identify gambling harm and how to inject this into natural conversations.
GambleAware chief commissioning officer Anna Hargrave said in a statement: “We know that discussions about gambling can be challenging, and that training and the tools provided were key to preparing frontline workers to have conversations with clients about gambling.” She added, “The production of clearer guidance and an increased flexibility around questions should help front-line workers in identifying harms, having sensitive client conversations and helping reduce stigma going forward.”
Citizens Advice Scotland CEO Derek Mitchell commented, “It is very clear from the feedback we get that stigma is a major problem, and that is why it is so important for the CAB network that we do not judge anyone’s circumstances or background when seeking help, and believe it is vital people seek support as soon as possible.”
