Helping a Problem Gambler

You can support a loved one and get expert help for yourself if you are close to someone who gambles to excess.

People experiencing gambling harm in the UK can self-refer to a specialist gambling clinic, or ask their GP for details of local services.

Support is available if a person's family are affected by their gambling, which the NHS lists as including partners and friends. The services include Gambling support clinics, GamFam, and Gambling with Lives.

One of the most important first steps is to gain information and support. The National Gambling Helpline is run by GamCare and takes confidential calls 24/7. It offers support and information about problem gambling.

The Gambling Commission says the National Gambling Helpline, operated by GamCare, offers advice, support and information on problem gambling. In England and Scotland, its number is 0808 8020 133, and in Wales, NHS Wales's help number is 0808 2819 265. The phone and online service is free 24 hours a day, on 365 days a year. The organisation has help with things like talking with those impacted by someone else's gambling, making gambling safer, and support for gambling problems.

For problems that may arise, it is known that support is available for those affected by someone else’s gambling, including family and friends. Types of support have been known to include by phone, live chat, or WhatsApp and online support services including peer support for those affected by a loved one’s gambling.

The National Gambling Clinic in London says its Family and Friends service supports people impacted by someone else’s gambling, and in addition family members and friends including partners and friends are welcome to refer for individual support and psychoeducation about gambling and its impact.

The Central and North West London site says it provides techniques to help people stop gambling, couple and family therapy, and individual support for family members. The service provides tools and techniques.

The Gambling Commission recommends that those who are struggling with gambling-related problems should contact the National Gambling or NHS Wales Helplines. The Gambling Commission suggests informing and offering support. So if shared finances are at risk, you might look to things like altering account access, moving salary payments, or setting limits on shared spend.

In short, the next steps you can take are to contact the National Gambling Helpline or find the NHS resources online, and use the support services provided by experts including those for family and friends.