What Is GAMCARE and Why Does It Exist?

GAMCARE is the UK's leading independent charity dedicated to providing free, confidential support and counselling for anyone affected by problem gambling. Founded in 1997, GAMCARE operates the National Gambling Helpline and delivers comprehensive treatment services across England, Scotland, and Wales. The organization exists to address a critical gap in mental health support: gambling harm affects not only the person gambling but also their family members, friends, and wider communities. GAMCARE's mission is to support those harmed by gambling through evidence-based advice and treatment, while simultaneously working to minimise gambling-related harm through education, prevention, and communication.

The charity's work is grounded in a fundamental principle: that problem gambling is a serious public health issue requiring professional intervention, not judgment. Every person who contacts GAMCARE—whether they are struggling with their own gambling or concerned about a loved one—receives the same promise: free, confidential, and non-judgmental support, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The History of GAMCARE and Its Founding

GAMCARE was founded in 1997 by Paul Bellringer OBE, a pioneering figure in the field of gambling harm reduction. Bellringer's motivation to establish GAMCARE came directly from his experiences working in the probation service, where he witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of problem gambling on individuals, families, and communities. Before GAMCARE existed, there was virtually no dedicated support infrastructure for problem gamblers in the UK—a glaring gap in the mental health and addiction support landscape.

In its founding year, GAMCARE received a grant from the National Lottery, which provided the initial funding to establish the organization. The charity was officially launched on 29th October 1997, marking the beginning of a transformation in how the UK approached gambling addiction support. From this modest beginning, GAMCARE has grown to become the nation's primary provider of gambling harm support.

The organization's evolution reflects both the growing recognition of gambling as a public health issue and the increasing sophistication of support services. Over the past 25+ years, GAMCARE has expanded from a helpline-focused service to a comprehensive support network offering multiple intervention channels—telephone, online chat, face-to-face counselling, and digital platforms—ensuring that support is accessible to people with different preferences, circumstances, and needs.

GAMCARE's Role in the National Gambling Support Network

GAMCARE does not operate in isolation. The organization is a central pillar of the National Gambling Support Network (NGSN), a coordinated system of support services across Great Britain. This network brings together multiple organizations—including NHS gambling clinics, local charities, counselling services, and peer support groups—to provide comprehensive, accessible care for anyone affected by gambling harm.

Within this ecosystem, GAMCARE serves a unique role: it is the primary provider of direct, accessible support through the National Gambling Helpline and operates the largest network of treatment providers. The organization works closely with:

• The Gambling Commission, the UK's regulatory body for gambling
• GambleAware, which focuses on prevention, education, and information tools
• NHS England and NHS Scotland, which commission specialist gambling clinics
• Local authorities and health boards, which refer individuals to GAMCARE services
• Peer support organizations like Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon

This collaborative approach ensures that when someone reaches out for help, they are not simply given a phone number—they are connected to a coordinated system of care that can meet them where they are and support them through their recovery journey.

How Do You Contact GAMCARE and Access Support?

One of GAMCARE's greatest strengths is its accessibility. The organization recognizes that people affected by gambling harm have different communication preferences, different circumstances, and different barriers to seeking help. For this reason, GAMCARE provides multiple pathways to support, ensuring that no one is turned away because they prefer not to make a phone call, or cannot access a telephone, or need support at an unusual hour.

The National Gambling Helpline: Telephone Support

The National Gambling Helpline (operated by GAMCARE) is the most widely known access point to GAMCARE's services. The helpline number is 0808 802 0133, and it is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This is a free call—the number is a Freephone number, meaning there are no charges for calling, regardless of your phone provider or plan.

When you call the National Gambling Helpline, you will speak with a trained adviser who has expertise in gambling harm and support. These advisers are not clinical psychologists or doctors; they are trained support professionals who can:

• Listen to your situation without judgment
• Provide immediate emotional support and reassurance
• Offer information about gambling harm and recovery
• Discuss treatment options and next steps
• Refer you to more intensive support (counselling, therapy) if needed
• Provide crisis support if you are in distress

The call is completely confidential. GAMCARE does not record your name or contact details unless you choose to provide them, and the organization has strict data protection policies. You can call anonymously if you prefer.

What to expect when you call:

1. A brief introduction from the adviser
2. An opportunity to explain your situation at your own pace
3. Listening and empathetic response
4. Discussion of available support options
5. Information about next steps, whether that's further calls, counselling, or other services

Many people find that the act of making that first call is the hardest part. If you are nervous, remember: the advisers have heard it all before, they are trained to support people in your exact situation, and there is no "right" way to explain a gambling problem.

Online and Digital Support Options

Not everyone is comfortable making a phone call. Some people are worried about privacy (e.g., living with family members), others prefer written communication, and some simply find it easier to articulate their thoughts in writing. GAMCARE recognizes these preferences and offers several digital alternatives:

Live Chat: GAMCARE's website includes a live chat feature that allows you to connect with a support adviser in real time via text. This is particularly useful if you want to get support without making a phone call, or if you want to maintain a written record of the conversation.

Online Forum: GAMCARE hosts a moderated community forum where people affected by gambling harm can connect with others, share their experiences, ask questions, and receive support from both advisers and peers. The forum is organized into sections for different audiences (e.g., "Overcoming Problem Gambling," "Family & Friends," "New Members Intros") and provides a space for ongoing support and community.

WhatsApp and Messaging: GAMCARE also provides support via WhatsApp and other messaging platforms, recognizing that many people prefer to communicate through the apps they use daily.

Email Support: For less urgent queries, you can email GAMCARE with questions about services, referrals, or specific support needs.

These digital channels are particularly valuable for people who:

• Are concerned about privacy or confidentiality
• Prefer to communicate in writing
• Have hearing difficulties or speech impediments
• Are in crisis but not ready for a phone conversation
• Are seeking support outside traditional business hours (though the helpline is 24/7)

Face-to-Face and In-Person Counselling

While telephone and online support are accessible and immediate, some people benefit from face-to-face therapeutic support. GAMCARE provides one-to-one counselling and therapy sessions delivered in person at various locations across England, Scotland, and Wales. These sessions are typically conducted by qualified counsellors or psychotherapists and may involve:

• Individual therapy: One-to-one sessions focused on your specific needs and goals
• Family therapy: Sessions involving family members to address the impact of gambling on relationships
• Couples therapy: Support for partners affected by one partner's gambling

To access face-to-face support, you typically begin by contacting GAMCARE via the helpline, live chat, or online form. An adviser will discuss your needs, assess the type of support that would be most helpful, and refer you to an appropriate service. Depending on your location and the type of support needed, you may be referred to:

• A GAMCARE-run counselling service
• An NHS gambling clinic
• A local counselling provider within the National Gambling Support Network

Geographic coverage varies, and some rural areas may have limited face-to-face options. However, GAMCARE works to ensure that everyone can access some form of support, whether that's intensive therapy or regular telephone check-ins.

What Types of Support and Services Does GAMCARE Provide?

GAMCARE's support services are not one-size-fits-all. The organization recognizes that gambling harm manifests differently for different people and that recovery requires different approaches depending on the individual's circumstances, the severity of their gambling, and their personal preferences.

Counselling and Therapeutic Support

At the heart of GAMCARE's work is evidence-based counselling and therapy. The most prominent therapeutic approach used by GAMCARE is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a structured, goal-oriented form of psychotherapy that has strong scientific evidence for treating gambling disorder.

What is CBT and how does it help with gambling?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is based on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. In the context of gambling harm, CBT helps people to:

• Identify the thoughts and emotions that trigger gambling urges
• Understand the patterns and cycles that keep them gambling
• Develop practical coping strategies to resist urges
• Change unhelpful thought patterns (e.g., "I can win back my losses")
• Build skills for managing stress, boredom, or negative emotions without gambling

CBT is typically delivered in structured sessions—often 8 to 12 sessions over several weeks or months—with clear goals and homework between sessions. Research has shown CBT to be effective for reducing gambling behaviour and improving mental health outcomes.

GAMCARE also offers other forms of therapy and support:

Support for Different Groups

Gambling harm does not affect everyone equally, and different groups may have specific needs or barriers to accessing support. GAMCARE provides tailored support for:

Individual Gamblers

The primary focus of GAMCARE's work is supporting people who are struggling with their own gambling. This includes people at all stages—from those who are beginning to notice problems, to those in crisis, to those in recovery. GAMCARE's approach is non-judgmental: there is no minimum threshold of harm or loss required to access support. If gambling is causing you concern, GAMCARE is there to help.

Family Members and Friends

Gambling harm is not experienced in isolation. Partners, parents, children, siblings, and friends are often deeply affected by a loved one's gambling. They may experience financial stress, emotional trauma, relationship breakdown, and a sense of helplessness. GAMCARE recognizes this and provides dedicated support for family members and friends, including:

• Advice on how to support a loved one without enabling their gambling
• Counselling to address the emotional impact on the family
• Information about self-exclusion and other protective measures
• Connection with peer support (e.g., Gam-Anon, a 12-step program for families)
• Financial and practical advice

Women Affected by Gambling

Women may face specific barriers to seeking help due to stigma, caregiving responsibilities, or other factors. GAMCARE runs specialized programmes for women, including the "GamCare Way Forward" online support group, which provides a dedicated space for women to access support and connect with others.

Young People

Young people may be at risk of developing gambling problems due to their exposure to online gambling, sports betting, and gaming. GAMCARE provides support for young people and their families, with advisers trained to understand the specific challenges young people face.

Self-Help Resources and Community Support

Not everyone needs or wants intensive counselling. GAMCARE also provides self-help resources that empower people to take action on their own:

Self-Exclusion Advice: GAMCARE provides detailed guidance on self-exclusion schemes, which allow people to ban themselves from gambling venues and online betting sites. This is a powerful tool for harm reduction.

Information Materials: GAMCARE publishes guides, fact sheets, and educational materials on topics like understanding gambling addiction, managing urges, rebuilding relationships, and financial recovery.

Online Forum: As mentioned earlier, GAMCARE's community forum provides peer support, shared experience, and access to advisers' guidance.

Peer Support Groups: GAMCARE can refer people to peer-led support groups like Gamblers Anonymous (for people with gambling problems) and Gam-Anon (for families and friends).

How Is GAMCARE Different From GambleAware?

A common source of confusion for people seeking gambling support in the UK is the relationship between GAMCARE and GambleAware. Both are prominent organizations in the gambling support landscape, but they serve different functions. Understanding the difference is important for accessing the right support.

Key Differences in Mission and Focus

GAMCARE = Treatment. GambleAware = Prevention.

This distinction is crucial. If you are currently struggling with gambling and need counselling, you contact GAMCARE. If you want to assess your gambling behaviour, use a spend calculator, or learn about warning signs before problems develop, you visit GambleAware.

How the Two Organizations Work Together

Despite their different functions, GAMCARE and GambleAware are not competitors—they are partners. The two organizations work together as part of the National Gambling Support Network, and GambleAware provides significant funding to GAMCARE to support its treatment services.

In practice, this means:

• GambleAware's service finder directs people to GAMCARE services when they need treatment
• GambleAware's online assessments often recommend contacting GAMCARE if someone's gambling is causing harm
• GAMCARE and GambleAware collaborate on research, public awareness campaigns, and policy advocacy
• Funding flows from GambleAware (and gambling operators) to GAMCARE to ensure treatment services are free and accessible

In 2024, GAMCARE formally joined GambleAware's National Gambling Support Network, strengthening the integration of prevention and treatment services.

What Are the Common Misconceptions About GAMCARE?

Despite GAMCARE's prominence in the UK gambling support landscape, several misconceptions persist that may prevent people from seeking help. Let's address the most common ones.

Myth: GAMCARE Is Only for Severe Addiction

Reality: GAMCARE provides support at all stages of gambling harm, from early warning signs to severe addiction. You do not need to have lost your house, destroyed your relationships, or hit rock bottom to contact GAMCARE. In fact, early intervention is often more effective than waiting until problems are severe.

Many people contact GAMCARE because:

• They've noticed they're spending more on gambling than they intended
• They feel anxious or stressed about their gambling
• Their family members are expressing concern
• They want to understand whether their gambling is problematic
• They want to reduce their gambling, even if it's not yet causing major harm

GAMCARE's advisers are trained to support people at all these stages. The earlier you seek help, the easier recovery often is.

Myth: GAMCARE Is Not Confidential or Judgment-Free

Reality: GAMCARE operates under strict confidentiality agreements and data protection laws. Your contact with GAMCARE is confidential—the organization will not inform your employer, your family, or anyone else without your permission. The only exceptions are in cases of serious risk to yourself or others, which are rare and would be explained to you.

Furthermore, GAMCARE's entire ethos is non-judgmental. The advisers and counsellors working for GAMCARE understand that gambling addiction is a complex issue with psychological, social, and sometimes biological components. They do not view gambling problems as a moral failing or a character weakness. You will not be judged for how much you've lost, how long you've been gambling, or any other aspect of your situation.

Myth: GAMCARE Costs Money

Reality: GAMCARE is a charity, and all of its core services are completely free. There are no hidden costs, no membership fees, and no charges for:

• Calling the National Gambling Helpline
• Using live chat or email support
• Accessing the online forum
• Receiving counselling or therapy referrals
• Receiving financial advice

GAMCARE is funded through charitable donations, grants (including from GambleAware), and NHS commissions. The organization's mission is to ensure that cost is never a barrier to accessing help.

What Is the Evidence Behind GAMCARE's Effectiveness?

GAMCARE's work is not based on anecdote or assumption—it is grounded in evidence and research. The organization regularly evaluates its services and contributes to the evidence base on gambling harm treatment.

Impact and Outcomes

GAMCARE supports thousands of people every year. While specific numbers vary by year, the organization typically:

• Receives over 100,000 calls to the National Gambling Helpline annually
• Provides face-to-face counselling to thousands of individuals and families
• Reaches tens of thousands more through online forums, live chat, and other digital channels

Research on GAMCARE's services has shown positive outcomes:

• People who access GAMCARE counselling report significant reductions in gambling behaviour
• Relationship quality improves for families who receive support
• Financial recovery is possible with the right support and advice
• Mental health improves as gambling-related stress and anxiety decrease

GAMCARE also contributed to research on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for gambling, piloting a computerized CBT programme (GameChange) in partnership with GambleAware. This research has added to the evidence that structured therapeutic interventions are effective for gambling disorder.

Professional Recognition and Accreditation

GAMCARE's credibility is reflected in its partnerships and accreditations:

• NHS Partnership: GAMCARE works with NHS England, NHS Scotland, and NHS Wales to provide gambling treatment services. The NHS would not commission services from an organization that did not meet rigorous standards.
• Gambling Commission: GAMCARE is recognized by the Gambling Commission, the UK's regulatory body, as a key support organization.
• Regulatory Approval: GAMCARE's counsellors and therapists are trained to professional standards and many hold accreditations from bodies like the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP).
• Charity Status: GAMCARE is registered as a UK charity (Charity Commission), meaning its finances are transparent and its governance is subject to regulatory oversight.

How Do You Get Started With GAMCARE Support?

If you've decided that you want to seek help—whether for your own gambling or a loved one's—here is a practical step-by-step guide to accessing GAMCARE support.

Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Help

Step 1: Choose Your Contact Method

Decide how you feel most comfortable reaching out. Your options are:

• Phone: 0808 802 0133 (24/7, free)
• Live Chat: Visit gamcare.org.uk and select the chat option
• Email: Send a message via the website contact form
• Forum: Join the community forum for peer support and advice
• WhatsApp: Message GAMCARE via WhatsApp (number available on their website)

If you're not sure which method to choose, remember: there is no wrong choice. Pick whichever feels most accessible and comfortable for you.

Step 2: Make Contact

Reach out using your chosen method. You don't need to have a perfectly prepared speech. You can simply say:

• "I'm concerned about my gambling"
• "My partner's gambling is affecting our family"
• "I'm not sure if I have a problem, but I'd like to talk to someone"

Any of these openings is fine. The adviser will ask questions to understand your situation better.

Step 3: Describe Your Situation

Talk to the adviser about what's been happening. Include:

• How long you've been gambling or concerned about gambling
• What you've been gambling on (betting shops, online, casinos, etc.)
• How much money is involved (if you're comfortable sharing)
• How it's affecting your life (relationships, finances, mental health, work)
• Whether anyone else is affected
• What you hope to achieve

You don't need to answer every question—share what you're comfortable with.

Step 4: Discuss Options

The adviser will discuss what support options are available to you. This might include:

• Regular telephone support calls
• Referral to face-to-face counselling
• Information about self-exclusion
• Advice about managing debt
• Referral to peer support groups
• Referral to other services (e.g., mental health support, financial advice)

Step 5: Make a Plan

Together with the adviser, you'll agree on next steps. This might be:

• A follow-up call at a specific time
• A referral to counselling with a specific date
• Information about local services
• Resources to help you in the meantime

Step 6: Take Action

Follow through on the plan. Recovery from gambling harm is possible, and GAMCARE will support you every step of the way.

What to Know Before You Call

If you're planning to call the National Gambling Helpline, here are a few things that might help:

Choose a Private Moment

Try to call when you have privacy and won't be interrupted. If you live with family members and are concerned about confidentiality, you might call from a private space or use the live chat option instead.

Prepare (But Don't Stress)

You don't need to prepare a script, but you might jot down a few notes:

• Key dates or events related to your gambling
• Types of gambling you've engaged in
• Approximate amounts lost (if you know)
• How it's affected your life
• What you hope to achieve

Expect to Feel Emotional

Talking about gambling problems can bring up strong emotions—shame, guilt, sadness, anger, or relief. This is normal and expected. The adviser is trained to handle emotional calls and will support you.

Know That Help Is Available

Whatever your situation, GAMCARE has supported people in similar circumstances. Recovery is possible, and you don't have to do it alone.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About GAMCARE

Q: What is GAMCARE?

A: GAMCARE is an independent UK charity founded in 1997 that provides free, confidential support and counselling for anyone affected by problem gambling. The organization operates the National Gambling Helpline (0808 802 0133) and delivers face-to-face counselling, online support, and peer support services across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Q: How do I contact GAMCARE?

A: You can reach GAMCARE by:

• Calling the National Gambling Helpline: 0808 802 0133 (24/7, free)
• Using live chat on gamcare.org.uk
• Joining the online forum at community.gamcare.org.uk
• Emailing via the website contact form
• Messaging via WhatsApp (details on website)

Q: Is GAMCARE free?

A: Yes, all GAMCARE services are completely free. There are no hidden costs, membership fees, or charges for any support.

Q: What's the difference between GAMCARE and GambleAware?

A: GAMCARE provides treatment and counselling for people affected by gambling harm. GambleAware provides prevention tools, information, and self-assessment resources for the general public. Both organizations work together as part of the National Gambling Support Network.

Q: Can family and friends get support from GAMCARE?

A: Yes, GAMCARE provides dedicated support for family members and friends affected by a loved one's gambling, including counselling, advice, and peer support referrals.

Q: Does GAMCARE offer online counselling?

A: Yes, GAMCARE provides support through multiple channels: telephone, live chat, email, online forum, and face-to-face counselling. Online counselling and therapy sessions are available for those who prefer digital support.

Q: Is GAMCARE affiliated with the NHS?

A: GAMCARE works closely with the NHS and is part of the National Gambling Support Network. The NHS commissions GAMCARE services, and people can be referred to GAMCARE through NHS gambling clinics.

Q: Do I need to have a severe gambling problem to contact GAMCARE?

A: No. GAMCARE provides support at all stages of gambling harm, from early warning signs to severe addiction. Early intervention is often more effective, so you don't need to wait until your situation is critical.

Q: Is GAMCARE confidential?

A: Yes, all contact with GAMCARE is confidential. The organization will not share your information with anyone without your permission, except in rare cases of serious risk to yourself or others.

Q: When was GAMCARE founded?

A: GAMCARE was founded in 1997 by Paul Bellringer OBE, who was motivated by his experiences in the probation service and the lack of dedicated gambling support services at the time.

Q: What types of therapy does GAMCARE offer?

A: GAMCARE offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), family therapy, couples counselling, motivational interviewing, and general counselling. The type of support offered depends on your individual needs.

Q: How effective is GAMCARE's support?

A: Research has shown that people who access GAMCARE services experience significant reductions in gambling behaviour, improved relationships, and better mental health outcomes. GAMCARE's work is evidence-based and recognized by the NHS and Gambling Commission.

Related Terms

• BeGambleAware — Prevention-focused gambling awareness organization
• Gambling Therapy — Therapeutic approaches to treating gambling disorder
• Responsible Gambling — Principles and practices for safe gambling
• Self-Exclusion — Tool for restricting access to gambling services
• National Gambling Support Network — Coordinated system of UK gambling support services