Gambling can start as a fun pastime, but for some, it can lead to financial struggles, emotional distress, and challenges in relationships. When gambling begins to feel overwhelming, it’s essential to understand the risks and know that free gambling help services are available to provide support.
Understanding Gambling Harm
Problem gambling affects the individual and their families, friends, and communities. The consequences can include:
- Financial Struggles – Increased debt, unpaid bills, and loss of savings.
- Emotional and Mental Health Challenges – Anxiety, depression, and stress due to gambling-related losses.
- Relationship Strain – Family conflicts, broken trust, and social isolation.
- Legal Issues – Some individuals resort to crime to fund their gambling, leading to legal consequences.
Recognising the warning signs of gambling addiction is the first step towards recovery. If gambling feels out of control, seeking professional support can make all the difference.
How Free Gambling Help Services Can Support You
There are various ways to get help for gambling-related harm, from professional counselling to peer support. Many services focus on both prevention and recovery.
What GamLEARN Provides in Terms of Free Gambling Help Services
At GamLEARN, we believe in the power of lived experience to reduce gambling-related harm. Our mission is to support and empower individuals affected by gambling by providing education, peer support, and professional guidance.
GamLEARN Services
- Courses – We provide opportunities to obtain learning and accredited training through courses developed and delivered by lived experience. Read more
- Criminal Justice Support – We offer a tailored support service for individuals facing the Criminal Justice System, helping them navigate legal challenges.
- Research – We collaborate with research sectors and academics to engage meaningfully with perspectives on lived experience. Read more
- Meet-Ups – A weekly online meet-up with our members in a safe space to share, connect, and talk.
GamLEARN Courses
Addiction By Design – This course, hosted by Matt Gaskell, Consultant Psychologist and Clinical Lead for the NHS Northern Gambling Service, introduces learners to how gambling products and environments exploit our reward learning systems.
Suicide Prevention – This externally facilitated online course provides knowledge and tools to help individuals recognise and prevent suicide, one of the most preventable deaths.
Safeguarding – Learn how safeguarding works best when everyone is involved and how to implement it effectively.
Understanding Gambling-Related Harm and its Links to Crime – Developed with Gambling Harm UK, this CPD course includes real-life accounts and research on gambling-related harm and its connections to crime.
Gambling-Related Crimes Support
Criminal Justice Support – We offer a personalised service to assist individuals who have resorted to crime to fund their gambling. Our support includes:
- Assistance from team members with lived experience of gambling harm.
- Connections with legal experts who specialise in gambling-related cases.
- Links to trusted support and treatment services.
- Additional support for family and friends.
- Expert reports to assist with legal cases.
If you want to know more, read our blog on how GamLearn’s criminal justice support.
Understanding Gambling-Related Harm and its Links to Crime – This course, developed using real-life experiences and recognised research, raises awareness of gambling harm and its potential links to crime. It is designed for professionals within the Criminal Justice System.
Duration: 2h | Location: In Person
Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding gambling-related harm and its link to crime.
- Research on the prevalence of gambling in the UK.
- The role of AI and marketing in gambling promotion.
- Suicide risks within gambling harm.
- Available support and treatment services.
What GamLEARN Partners Provide
GamLEARN collaborates with trusted organisations to offer additional services that complement our support network. Our partners provide:
- Financial Guidance – Debt management plans, budgeting assistance, and access to emergency funds.
- Legal and Criminal Justice Support – Legal guidance, rehabilitation programs, and family support services.
- Helplines and Chat Services – 24/7 confidential support from trained professionals.
- Professional Counseling – Therapy and rehabilitation programs tailored to individual needs.
- Self-Help Tools – Resources for managing gambling urges and improving financial stability.
For immediate help, visit the National Gambling Helpline website or call [0808 8020 133](tel: 08088020133).
Join GamLEARN and Start Your Recovery Journey
Your support can change lives. By contributing to GamLEARN, you help us provide hope, education, and a pathway to recovery for those affected by gambling harm.
Your support helps expand services, enhance peer networks, and advocate for meaningful change, creating a safer environment for those affected by gambling harm.
How You Can Help:
- Donate – Your generosity funds vital programs and support services.
- Partner With Us – Collaborate to strengthen resources and outreach.
- Raise Awareness – Share our message to help others find their needed support.
Every donation, partnership, and shared message expands GamLEARN’s reach, providing crucial resources to those affected by gambling harm. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive community. Donate today and help people overcome the challenges of gambling harm.
Reclaim Your Life and Start Your Recovery Today!
Recovery starts with one step. Whether you seek emotional support, financial advice, or legal assistance, GamLEARN and our trusted partners are here to help. You don’t have to face this journey alone—there are many free gambling help services available to provide the support you need.
At GamLEARN, we offer guidance and resources to help you regain control and build a healthier, more fulfilling life. Here, you can start rebuilding with a supportive community that understands your struggles and is committed to your recovery. No matter where you are in your journey, help is within reach. Join us and take the first step today to reclaim your future.
